But this year in North Central Massachusetts, it might be different.

Both Fitchburg's and Leominster's state representative seats are set to have heated races.

In Fitchburg, the candidates for retiring state Rep. Emile Goguen's seat are Stephen L. DiNatale, Mary H. Whitney, and David P. LeBlanc, all Democrats; and Edward L. Niemczura, a Republican.

State Rep. Jennifer Flanagan, D-Leominster, is taking on Ward 3 City Councilor Claire Freda, who Flanagan defeated in the 2004 Democratic primary. Freda is now running as an unenrolled candidate.

We're encouraged to see such a robust election season begin to take shape, and not just because it's good for democracy.

Quite frankly, the local delegation has consistently fallen short when it comes to securing money and assistance from the state for North Central Massachusetts.

Some members have spent ample time on niche issues, as well as their most important responsibility: Taking care of their district's needs.

For example, since taking office Flanagan has spent an inordinate amount of time pushing for more school nurses.

It's certainly an important issue, but shouldn't be Flanagan's primary focus.

State Rep. Emile Goguen has made headlines for his opposition to gay marriage, and no doubt many in his district share his beliefs.

But again, should such advocacy come before securing more money for city services and the public schools, or state help in attracting new businesses and industries to this area?

No, it doesn't.

Legislators need to remember that they don't represent just special interest groups.

They're supposed to be looking out for every man, woman and child in their district.

After all, their constituents don't have anybody else representing them at the Statehouse.

We hope -- and expect -- the upcoming election will provide many opportunities for both challengers and incumbents to discuss exactly what role the delegation should play in Boston.