Polls are open in the Merrimack Valley and across the Commonwealth as voters turn out to cast their ballots in today’s state primary election. Local city and town clerks have predicted light primary voter turnout today.
Statewide races include governor, lieutenant governor, attorney general and treasurer. In the Democratic runoff for that seat, Senator Barry R. Finegold (D-Andover) is making a bid to succeed current Treasurer and gubernatorial candidate Steven Grossman. Finegold squares off today against fellow democrats Thomas P. Conroy of Wayland and Deborah B. Goldberg of Brookline.
Democratic contenders dominate today’s contested races in the Merrimack Valley. The only local Republican primary showdown is centered on the second Essex state representative seat, which includes Haverhill’s riverside and east parish sections. Incumbent Republican Leonard Mirra, of West Newbury, is being challenged by Edward H. Watson of Groveland.
Leading local primary runoffs include the Democratic race for the First Essex state senate seat. Incumbent Senator Kathleen O’Connor Ives of Newburyport is seeking her second term. She squares off today against primary challenger Jessica L. Finocchiaro of Methuen. Republican candidate and Haverhill School Committee member Shaun Toohey is unopposed today on that party’s ballot.
Other local races to watch include the democratic runoff for 14th Essex state representative. Incumbent Diana DiZoglio of Methuen is challenged by North Andover Democrats Oscar Camargo and Phil DeCologero. Also, in the race to succeed second Essex and Middlesex Senator Barry Finegold, former state representative Barbara L’Italien of Andover is running against fellow Democrats Pavel M. Payano and Doris V. Rodriguez, both of Lawrence.
It is also state and federal primary election day today in New Hampshire.
Polls close at 8 p.m., tonight. That is when WHAV will bring you live coverage of today election returns and local reaction.