JAY — A retired millworker and educator is hoping to claim the state Senate seat that’s been held for years by Republican Tom Saviello, who can’t run for re-election because of term limits. 

Democrat Gary McGrane announced recently he is running for the seat, the first candidate to declare his intentions in the sprawling district.

McGrane called himself a longtime advocate for Franklin County and promised in a written statement that he will serve as an advocate for “the people of our district need a senator who will fight for them, and represent them in Augusta.”

“For too long, lobbyists, special interests, and professional politicians have held sway in Augusta,” McGrane said.

McGrane, who served as a Franklin County commissioner for seven terms, said that just as he fought for people as a county commissioner, he will do the same for them in Augusta.

“Our people need a state senator who will watch the budget, work for better jobs and job training, and push for better access to broadband and health care,” McGrane said.

He said he is eager to provide the district with “first-class service and representation.”

McGrane and his wife, Debbie, have lived in Jay for 40 years, where he serves as a selectman.

The 17th District encompasses all of Franklin County and Belgrade, Fayette, Mount Vernon and Vienna in Kennebec County.

By state law, senators are limited to four two-year terms.

The election is Nov. 6.

scollins@sunjournal.com

State Senate hopeful Gary McGrane, a Jay Democrat who hopes to win the 17th District seat. (File photo)