Last week, the second debate for candidates seeking to fill the seat vacated by Senator Anthony Galluccio’s resignation took place at the Senior Center in Cambridge. Chelsea continues to play a significant role in this electoral race. Michael Albano stands as the sole candidate representing Chelsea in the running. Political analysts suggest that Charlestown and Chelsea could prove decisive in this intensely competitive contest. Similar to the forum held in Chelsea two weeks prior, this event drew strong attendance, with all candidates presenting their platforms and visions for the expansive senatorial district they hope to represent. Attorney Tim Flaherty and Everett Councilor Sal DiDomenico again emerged as the primary contenders. Michael Albano, a Chelsea resident, demonstrated continued momentum with a showing that equaled his performance at the Chelsea forum two weeks earlier. The Cambridge Chronicle’s comment section following the debate featured diverse reactions from readers. “Tim Flaherty sounded the strongest,” one reader commented. Another observed, “The biggest part of the district is in Everett and city Councilor Sal DiDomenico has a lead there … Galluccio with Sal D did a lot of door to door to get his name known.” “Did any Cambridge Democrat talk about smaller government, less taxes and personal responsibility?” another reader posed. “Not only is Dennis Benzan the best person for the job, he’s the right person for the job,” a reader stated. “It is not the strongest crop of candidates I’ve ever seen, but I thank them all for running. Tim Flaherty made the best overall impression at the forum,” another reader noted. The campaign is simultaneously accelerating and approaching its conclusion. The special election remains slightly more than three weeks away. Polling data received by the Independent indicates a tight race between Flaherty and DiDomenico. In Chelsea, Cambridge, Allston-Brighton, and Charlestown, Flaherty holds leads over DiDomenico. Should Everett’s turnout for DiDomenico reach only 50% or 55%, Flaherty’s margins in Chelsea, Charlestown, Cambridge, and Allston-Brighton could prove sufficient for victory. In unfortunate news, candidate Michael Albano’s brother died in a tragic skiing accident last Friday, prompting Albano to suspend his campaign pending his brother’s funeral arrangements.
