Linehan Scores Narrow Victory in District 2 Election

In what became the closest district race in Tuesday’s municipal election, incumbent Bill Linehan emerged victorious, earning himself a third term as Boston City Councilor for District 2.

Linehan took home 50.23 percent of the vote, with just 87 votes separating him from challenger Suzanne Lee. He celebrated with family and friends at Shenannigans Irish Pub in South Boston.

District 2 includes a portion of the South End in addition to Bay Village, Chinatown, South Boston and part of Dorchester.

Several voters exiting the polls on Tuesday told Patch they supported Linehan because of his performance over the past two terms.

"I think he's done a very good job of representing the neighborhood," said one South End resident who asked that her name be withheld.

South Ender Jovita Fontanez also cast a vote for Linehan, and supported all four incumbents in the at-large race.

"I think they've gone a very good job, they work well together," she said. "We need elected officials who pay attention to new residents and people who have been in the city for a long time. There's lots of work to be done." 

Linehan’s brother, Tom, campaigned with several others outside the McKinley School voting station Tuesday morning.

Jackson wins big in District 7

In District 7, incumbent Tito Jackson led the way with 84 percent of the vote over challenger Sheneal Parker. Jackson was elected to the council in a special municipal election to replace Chuck Turner in March. He celebrated with supporters at Paraiso Restaurant in Uphams Corner.

District 7 includes a segment of the South End in addition to Roxbury, parts of Dorchester and the Fenway area.

Voter turn-out was low across the city despite soaring temperatures and a strong volunteer presence. Just over 18 percent of voters cast ballots in the election.

A volunteer passing out flyers at Washington Manor said she felt many people were unaware of the election.

"A lot of people don't know it's going on," she said.