Patricia A. Duffy holds a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from Tufts University and attended the University of Massachusetts, Amherst. She began her career in public service, gaining experience as a legislative aid. Duffy spent a significant portion of her career managing institutional risk in high-finance before transitioning to the public sector. She ran for state representative in 2002, although she did not win. In 2020, she won a three-way Democratic primary and was subsequently elected without a Republican challenger.

Patricia A. Duffy's political record suggests a strategic approach that balances progressive ideals with pragmatic considerations, particularly in her handling of environmental regulations. Her legislative record shows an unexpected convergence with opposing factions on climate change policies, revealing a highly calculated approach to protecting regional industrial interests. Duffy's rhetorical style often emphasizes community resilience and local empowerment, framing national issues through a distinctly regional lens.