Former representative joins race for Senate seat.

Byline: John Weeks

Former State Rep. Brian Knuuttila is looking to get back in politics. The special prosecutor for Worcester County Sheriff Guy Glodis has launched a campaign for the state Senate in hopes of securing the Worcester and Middlesex District being vacated by Senator Robert Antonioni, who has decided not to seek re-election. The Worcester and Middlesex District includes Bolton, precincts 1 and 2 of Clinton, Lancaster and Sterling.

Knuuttila, a Democrat, said he spent five years in the Marines and 13 years as a police officer before jumping into politics. While attending law school he met Antonini.

"I was a campaign worker for Antonioni back in 1993," Knuuttila said. "I designed the signs for his spaghetti supper. I was a grunt. I modeled myself on Bob. I learned from him. I learned what to do and what not to do."

Knuuttila was elected to the state House of Representatives in 1997. His represented Gardner, Winchendon, Ashburnham, Westminster, Ashby, Royalston and ward 4 and precinct A in Fitchburg. He served in the house until 2005, when he resigned to take a position under Glodis.

"Glodis and I became representatives together in 1997," he said. "When he became sheriff he called me and said, `I need some help down here, I need a good lawyer.' I left office to help him."

Knuuttila said he always missed politics and he now feels it is time to get back into it.

"I have a lot of experience," he said, "not just political, but life experience. I still know the issues, I'm a strong candidate and I think the voters will see that. The message I'm getting out there is that I will be focused on economic development on a regional basis, fiscal responsibility and public safety."

ART: PHOTO

CUTLINE: Brian Knuuttila and supporters gathered in front of Lancaster town hall last week while announcing his run for Senate.