Senator Sal DiDomenico visited Chelsea earlier this week to mark the arrival of a $470,000 fire truck for the Chelsea Fire Department. During the event, he expressed confidence in his re-election bid. “I am taking nothing for granted. We are working hard throughout the district – and especially in Cambridge,” he said with some satisfaction. His opponent in the race is Attorney Tim Flaherty, who is based in Cambridge. Flaherty recently secured an important endorsement from former Senator Jarrett Barrios, which observers view as a significant development. “I’m honored to have his endorsement,” Flaherty said following its announcement. The backing of Barrios, who wielded considerable influence in Everett during his time in the state senate, has bolstered Flaherty’s campaign prospects.
Both candidates are making strategic efforts to gain ground in areas where their opponents have traditionally been strong. DiDomenico has been placing campaign signs throughout Cambridge, demonstrating organizational strength outside his Everett base. Meanwhile, Flaherty has maintained an active presence in Charlestown, Chelsea, Revere, and Everett. To prevail, each candidate must chip away at the other’s support in their respective strongholds. DiDomenico needs to improve his performance in Cambridge compared to his previous election if he is to keep his seat. Similarly, Flaherty must improve his showing in Everett, where DiDomenico defeated him decisively.
The distribution of votes across the district could prove decisive in the upcoming election. A strong Cambridge performance by Flaherty could give him an advantage over DiDomenico. If Cambridge votes heavily for Flaherty again, he may accumulate enough votes to overcome even another victory for DiDomenico in Everett.