Throughout the sprawling senatorial district that stretches from Saugus to Allston-Brighton, Everett City Councilor Sal DiDomenico and Cambridge Attorney Tim Flaherty are engaged in intense last-minute campaigning. Both candidates are competing fiercely through substantial political mailings, newspaper advertising and high-profile visibility, racing toward next Tuesday’s election like thoroughbred horses neck and neck. Political observers suggest the race could be decided in Charlestown, Chelsea and Cambridge, areas where Flaherty appears to be building strength. Chelsea officials anticipate 1200-2000 voters will cast ballots on Tuesday, while Charlestown officials expect similar numbers. Everett is projected to see approximately 3,000 voters turn out. Polling data shows Flaherty gaining ground in Charlestown and Chelsea. According to Flaherty, he must remain competitive in Cambridge while keeping the gap between the various Cambridge candidates narrow. District-wide, between 10,000 and 12,000 voters are expected to participate on Tuesday.
DiDomenico and Flaherty have dominated the race through policy pieces published in local newspapers addressing numerous political issues, outpacing all other candidates seeking the seat vacated by former senator Anthony Galluccio. Galluccio’s resignation following a probation violation triggered this special election. The compressed campaign timeline has elevated both DiDomenico and Flaherty above their competitors due to their name recognition and visibility. DiDomenico built his profile as Galluccio’s chief of staff, working in an active senate office that served district residents extensively. Flaherty previously ran for Galluccio’s seat, establishing the foundation for his current campaign. His campaign team has operated strategically to boost visibility, increase name recognition and reach likely voters. At public forums held in Chelsea, Cambridge and Allston-Brighton, Flaherty’s performances exceeded DiDomenico’s, with observers noting his superior speaking abilities throughout the district. DiDomenico’s supporters acknowledge this but contend that DiDomenico’s strength lies in specific voting wards and precincts, arguing that speaking ability is not the only measure.
As Tuesday approaches, DiDomenico and Flaherty have both distributed additional mailings. Michael Albano of Chelsea, a third candidate generating some attention, has also sent out a final mailing and is campaigning across the district. Combined, DiDomenico and Flaherty have raised and spent approximately $240,000, while Albano has raised nearly $75,000. Both DiDomenico and Flaherty intend to spend their remaining funds before election day.
