Juwan Skeens

This page was current at the end of the individual's last campaign covered by Ballotpedia. Please contact us with any updates.

Juwan Skeens

Democratic Party

Elections and appointments

Last election

September 9, 2025

Education

Associate

Southern New Hampshire University, 2024

Personal

Birthplace

Boston, Mass.

Religion

Christian

Profession

Entrepreneur

Contact

Campaign website

Campaign X

Personal Facebook

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Personal LinkedIn

Juwan Skeens ran for election to the Boston City Council to represent District 4 in Massachusetts. He lost in the primary on September 9, 2025.

Biography

Juwan Skeens was born in Boston, Massachusetts. He earned an associate degree from Southern New Hampshire University in 2024. He graduated from the Massachusetts Commonwealth Seminar in 2017. His career experience includes working as an entrepreneur and as the founder and executive director of the nonprofit By Believe Inspire Repeat Tree House (BBIRTH). He has been affiliated with the following organizations:

• Life Skills Training & Wellness Center (LSTWC)
• Redefining Our Community Neighborhood Organization (ROC)
• Codman Square Neighborhood Council (CSNC)
• Boston Peoples Reparations Commission (BPRC)
• Boston NAACP

Elections

2025

See also: City elections in Boston, Massachusetts (2025)

General election

General election for Boston City Council District 4

Incumbent Brian Worrell defeated Helen Cameron in the general election for Boston City Council District 4 on November 4, 2025.

		Candidate	%	Votes
✔		Brian Worrell (Nonpartisan)	84.4	6,298
	Submit photo	Helen Cameron (Nonpartisan)	14.9	1,112
		Other/Write-in votes	0.7	50

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	Incumbents are bolded and underlined. Source	Total votes: 7,460
= candidate completed the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection survey.
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Nonpartisan primary election

Nonpartisan primary for Boston City Council District 4

Incumbent Brian Worrell and Helen Cameron defeated Juwan Skeens in the primary for Boston City Council District 4 on September 9, 2025.

		Candidate	%	Votes
✔		Brian Worrell (Nonpartisan)	81.4	5,773
✔	Submit photo	Helen Cameron (Nonpartisan)	11.5	817
		Juwan Skeens (Nonpartisan)	6.4	457
		Other/Write-in votes	0.6	43

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	Incumbents are bolded and underlined. Source 1 Source 2	Total votes: 7,090
= candidate completed the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection survey.
If you are a candidate and would like to tell readers and voters more about why they should vote for you, complete the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection Survey.
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Endorsements

Ballotpedia did not identify endorsements for Skeens in this election.

2024

See also: Massachusetts State Senate elections, 2024

General election

General election for Massachusetts State Senate 1st Suffolk District

Incumbent Nick Collins won election in the general election for Massachusetts State Senate 1st Suffolk District on November 5, 2024.

		Candidate	%	Votes
✔		Nick Collins (D)	97.7	61,127
		Other/Write-in votes	2.3	1,437

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	Incumbents are bolded and underlined. The results have been certified. Source	Total votes: 62,564
= candidate completed the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection survey.
If you are a candidate and would like to tell readers and voters more about why they should vote for you, complete the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection Survey.
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Democratic primary election

Democratic primary for Massachusetts State Senate 1st Suffolk District

Incumbent Nick Collins defeated Juwan Skeens in the Democratic primary for Massachusetts State Senate 1st Suffolk District on September 3, 2024.

		Candidate	%	Votes
✔		Nick Collins	78.4	10,386
		Juwan Skeens	21.1	2,792
		Other/Write-in votes	0.5	67

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	Incumbents are bolded and underlined. The results have been certified. Source	Total votes: 13,245
= candidate completed the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection survey.
If you are a candidate and would like to tell readers and voters more about why they should vote for you, complete the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection Survey.
Do you want a spreadsheet of this type of data? Contact our sales team.

Endorsements

Ballotpedia did not identify endorsements for Skeens in this election.

Campaign themes

2025

Ballotpedia survey responses

See also: Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection

Juwan Skeens did not complete Ballotpedia's 2025 Candidate Connection survey.

2024

Juwan Skeens completed Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey in 2024. The survey questions appear in bold and are followed by Skeens' responses. Candidates are asked three required questions for this survey, but they may answer additional optional questions as well.

Expand all | Collapse all

Who are you? Tell us about yourself.

My name is Juwan Skeens and I am running for the Massachusetts State Senate seeking to serve the First Suffolk District in order to bring Reliability, Accessibility, Transparency and Effectiveness into State Government. I was born and raised in Boston, where my family has owned property in Dorchester for over 50 years. I graduated from Boston Public Schools, attending The Joseph Lee School in Dorchester, Timilty Middle School in Roxbury, and Excel High School in South Boston, where I was a Junior Varsity Debate Champion in the Boston Debate League and the Senior Class President. As a Neighborhood Liaison for District 4, I had the privilege of working with then Boston City Council President Andrea Campbell from 2016-2018. During this time, I served the communities of Dorchester, Roxbury, and Mattapan by attending zoning board meetings and nearly 20 civic associations monthly, which allowed me to connect residents and businesses to city, state, and federal resources. Since July 2020, I have been a Community Organizer for the non-profit Redefining Our Community (ROC) Neighborhood Association, founded in 2009 after the tragic murder of Steven P. Odom in 2007. In this role, I have led two petitions, managed the Norfolk Street Bridge, and directed our community-led Life Skills Training and Wellness Center. I have been recognized as a Community Hidden Hero and serve as an Affiliate Board Member to the Codman Square Neighborhood Council (CSNC) since 2022.

Please list below 3 key messages of your campaign. What are the main points you want voters to remember about your goals for your time in office?

• Reliability & Accessibility: As your elected official, I will always be there for you, ensuring your concerns are addressed within 24 to 48 hours.
• Transparency and Effectiveness: Your elected official should always communicate their stance on every issue clearly. It's not just about implementing policy but also about ensuring it meets the needs of our constituents through diligent follow-up and accountability.
• "Building Bridges, Connecting Our Community: As your elected official, I am committed to fostering unity and collaboration. Together, we will create a stronger, more connected community where every voice is heard and valued."

What areas of public policy are you personally passionate about?

I am deeply passionate about enhancing Public Safety, advancing Education, addressing Environmental Issues, ensuring Affordable Housing, and fostering Small Business Development.

Who do you look up to? Whose example would you like to follow, and why?

God directs my path, and President Barack Obama is a great example that I follow.

Is there a book, essay, film, or something else you would recommend to someone who wants to understand your political philosophy?

David and Goliath - King James Version: 1 Samuel 17

What characteristics or principles are most important for an elected official?

I firmly believe that an elected official should lead with God, Family, and Community at the heart of every decision. It is crucial for your representative to embody Reliability, Accessibility, Transparency, and Effectiveness. Additionally, they must listen to you, uphold integrity, and be fully accountable to the people they serve.

What qualities do you possess that you believe would make you a successful officeholder?

I have deep roots in our community and a proven track record of dedicated service and leadership. Growing up in Boston, with my family owning property in Dorchester for over 50 years and being an active member of Christ Temple Church of Personal Experience in Roxbury and True Vine Church in Dorchester, I understand the unique challenges and strengths of our neighborhoods.

As a graduate of Boston Public Schools, where I excelled as a Junior Varsity Debate Champion and served as Senior Class President, I have demonstrated leadership and a commitment to excellence from a young age. My experience as a Neighborhood Liaison to District 4, working alongside then Boston City Council President Andrea Campbell, equipped me with valuable insights into local governance and the needs of our communities. During this time, I actively engaged with residents, businesses, and nearly 20 civic associations monthly, connecting them to essential city, state, and federal resources.

Since July 2020, my role as a Community Organizer for the Redefining Our Community (ROC) Neighborhood Association has further solidified my commitment to our community. Leading initiatives such as managing the Norfolk Street Bridge and directing the Life Skills Training and Wellness Center, I have demonstrated my ability to drive meaningful change and address local issues effectively. My recognition as a Community Hidden Hero and my nomination to the Codman Square Neighborhood Council underscore my dedication and impact.

As your State Senator, I will bring this extensive experience and deep community connection to the state level, advocating for policies that directly benefit our neighborhoods. My campaign is built on a foundation of listening to and empowering our community, ensuring our voices are heard and our needs are met. Together, we can create a brighter future for the First Suffolk District, and beyond.

What do you believe are the core responsibilities for someone elected to this office?

Legislative Duties

1. Proposing Legislation: Introducing bills and resolutions that address the needs and concerns of constituents and the state.
2. Committee Work: Serving on committees that review, amend, and vote on legislation before it reaches the full Senate.
3. Voting: Participating in votes on bills, amendments, and other legislative measures in the Senate chamber.

Constituent Services
1. Advocacy: Representing the interests of constituents in the legislative process.
2. Assistance: Helping constituents navigate state government services and resolve issues related to state agencies.
3. Communication: Keeping constituents informed about legislative developments and state issues through newsletters, town hall meetings, and other forms of communication.

Budget and Fiscal Responsibilities
1. Budget Approval: Reviewing, amending, and approving the state budget, ensuring funds are allocated appropriately to meet the state's needs.
2. Fiscal Oversight: Monitoring the implementation of the budget and ensuring taxpayer dollars are spent efficiently and effectively.

Oversight and Accountability
1. Government Oversight: Monitoring the activities of state agencies and officials to ensure they are operating within the law and in the best interests of the public.
2. Investigations: Conducting investigations into matters of public concern or potential misconduct by state officials or agencies.

Community Engagement
1. Public Meetings: Hosting and participating in public forums, town halls, and community events to engage with constituents and gather feedback.
2. Collaboration: Working with local governments, organizations, and other stakeholders to address community issues and improve local conditions.

Policy Development
Research: Conducting research and gathering data to inform policy decisions and legislative proposals.

Ethical and Professional Conduct

Integrity: Adhering to high ethical standards and avoiding conflicts of interest.

What legacy would you like to leave?

I would like the world to know that not only did I show up, but I helped another person to see their value, and reach their full potential.

What is the first historical event that happened in your lifetime that you remember? How old were you at the time?

9/11, and I was 7 years old.

What was your very first job? How long did you have it?

My first full-time job was at Stop and Shop in Hyde Park. I worked there for 1 year, while attending college, and working par-time as an intern for Dorchester Bay EDC through the Boston Youth Environmental Network.

What is your favorite book? Why?

Fahrenheit 451 because it's somewhat of a reflection as to where we are in society.

If you could be any fictional character, who would you want to be?

Bugs Bunny

What was the last song that got stuck in your head?

We Are The World - Michael Jackson

What is something that has been a struggle in your life?

Getting others to understand their value.

What do you believe is the ideal relationship between the governor and state legislature?

The perfect government would be one in which we all learn to collaborate for the benefit of our respective communities. Working together with the Governor is critical to passing legislation and assisting in resolving constituent problems.

What do you perceive to be your state's greatest challenges over the next decade?

Housing, Education, Over Reliance on Technology, Under prepared for Technology Advancement, Poverty, Health Care, etc,

Do you believe that it’s beneficial for state legislators to have previous experience in government or politics?

Yes, which is why I am extremely grateful to have worked alongside Andrea Campbell, as a Neighborhood Liaison when she was President of the Boston City Council serving District 4.

Do you believe it’s beneficial to build relationships with other legislators? Please explain your answer.

Yes, I believe that Teamwork makes the Dream Work and Together anything is possible. When I say "Building Bridges, Connecting Our Community", it takes village to raise a child, similar to what's needed to crafting meaningful legislation.

Is there a particular legislator, past or present, whom you want to model yourself after?

Sen. Bill Owens, Rep. John Lewis, President Barack Obama, Gov. Deval Patrick

Are you interested in running for a different political office (for example, the U.S. Congress or governor) in the future?

Yes, I believe in running for offices where I will be most effective.

Both sitting legislators and candidates for office hear many personal stories from the residents of their district. Is there a story that you’ve heard that you found particularly touching, memorable, or impactful?

Recently, one of my constituents lost their veteran husband. He arrived at the hospital for a scheduled check-up, and the anticipated 30-minute stay turned into two years, during which he sadly passed away. He told me, with what little energy he had left, how uncomfortable the hospital conditions were, and that he had almost reached a vegetative state. In addition to treating patients like numbers when there is a clear need for high-quality, reasonably priced care, we also need to improve our healthcare system by giving employees the proper working hours and compensation so they can do their jobs well. Our constituents—veterans in particular—should be treated with dignity.

Tell us your favorite joke.

Name something black and white, and read all over.

Should the legislature oversee or grant the use of emergency powers?

No

What is the first bill you would introduce if elected?

I would introduce bill (H.495/S.246) to eliminate the state's power to take over school districts, having instead a system focused on empowering the community and providing resources to improve schools. It would also change the graduation requirement to be based on coursework competency rather than test scores.

What organizations or individuals have endorsed your campaign?

N/A

What committees interest you?

Senate Committee on Ways and Means

Senate Committee on Post Audit and Oversight
Senate Committee on Global Warming and Climate Change
Senate Committee on Juvenile and Emerging Adult Justice
Joint Committee on Housing
Joint Committee on Cannabis Policy
Joint Committee on Children, Families and Persons with Disabilities

Joint Committee on Education

What are your views on financial transparency and government accountability?

Financial transparency and government accountability are fundamental to maintaining public trust and ensuring that taxpayer dollars are spent wisely and effectively. An essential aspect of achieving this is through a public interactive budget that allows residents to track every dollar spent and provide public testimony on budget allocations. This ensures that elected officials remain accountable to their constituents and that the public has a clear understanding of government expenditures and priorities.

Do you support or oppose changes to the current state ballot initiative process? If so, what kind of changes would you consider?

I'm in favor of amending the state ballot initiative as it stands. Having spearheaded two petitions myself, I always anticipate that the views of our constituents will be elevated and heard, whether odd or even years. When our community launches a petition, they find like-minded people who concur that there is a legitimate problem that needs our attention. That shouldn't have to be a drawn-out procedure with additional requirements in order to feel undervalued and ignored, particularly considering that you have lived in our Commonwealth all your life. I will make it my mission to relentlessly push for language changes that will reduce the number of signatures needed and require our elected officials to evaluate documents more quickly and thoroughly. More accountability, openness, and accessibility in our government will be made possible by this.

Note: Ballotpedia reserves the right to edit Candidate Connection survey responses. Any edits made by Ballotpedia will be clearly marked with [brackets] for the public. If the candidate disagrees with an edit, he or she may request the full removal of the survey response from Ballotpedia.org. Ballotpedia does not edit or correct typographical errors unless the candidate's campaign requests it.

Campaign finance summary

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Note: The finance data shown here comes from the disclosures required of candidates and parties. Depending on the election or state, this may represent only a portion of all the funds spent on their behalf. Satellite spending groups may or may not have expended funds related to the candidate or politician on whose page you are reading this disclaimer. Campaign finance data from elections may be incomplete. For elections to federal offices, complete data can be found at the FEC website. Click here for more on federal campaign finance law and here for more on state campaign finance law.

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Juwan Skeens campaign contribution history

Year	Office	Status	Contributions	Expenditures
2024*	Massachusetts State Senate 1st Suffolk District	Lost primary	$4,370	$0
Grand total			$4,370	$0
Sources: OpenSecrets,  Federal Elections Commission ***This product uses the openFEC API but is not endorsed or certified by the Federal Election Commission (FEC).
* Data from this year may not be complete

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