Tolman portrays himself as the common man—a former substitute teacher who regularly recycles and walks his kids to school every day. He jokes he is the only democratic candidate who has been to Mitt Romney’s home—as a UPS delivery person.

Looking ahead to November, Tolman’s goal is to translate his common man, clean politics image into broader support for his platform

Tolman’s plan for the the state is unique in specifically addressing the needs of rural western Mass., a plank spokesperson Karen G. Blackburn says is a reflection on his undergraduate years at Amherst.

Tolman, a lifelong resident of Watertown, worked his way through Boston College Law School and until the campaign taught at the law schools of both Boston College and Northeastern University.

From D.C. to Mass., With Love

Steve Grossman, former Democratic National Committee Chairman, wants to translate his skills as a business executive into executive leadership for the Commonwealth.

As the C.E.O. of the family-owned MassEnvelopePlus, Grossman is quick to point out his Somerville-based printing firm’s perfect labor record—no strikes, lockouts or arbitrations in 50 years as a union shop.

Grossman believes that his almost 30 years of experience in the business world is what the fiscally-hamstrung state needs.

Grossman says that as governor he will “hit the deck running,” and has developed a plan to solve the budget crisis while decreasing income taxes.

Grossman also wants to “build partnerships between working families and the business community.”

He wants the state to become the home of techonological innovation and also wants to develop an economy that incorporates all income levels.

Heading into the June convention, Grossman is confident of his chances.

“I want to make it clear that I am the best Democrat to beat Mitt Romney in November,” he says. “I think we will surprise a lot of people by how well I do.”