Lori A. Ehrlich (born June 9, 1963) is the State Representative for the Massachusetts 8th Essex District. Ehrlich won her seat on a March 4, 2008 special election after her predecessor, Doug Petersen, resigned. Peterson was appointed Commissioner of Agriculture by Governor Deval Patrick. After completing Petersen's term, Ehrlich went on to win re-election in November 2008. She is Chairwoman of the Joint Committee on Export Development.