Some races in the 2018 Massachusetts primary elections appear to be too close to call - others, potentially a landslide. WBZ's Nichole Davis spoke with Lauren Dezenski of the POLITICO Massachusetts Playbook about some of the standout races, as voters make their way to the polls to narrow the candidate field for November.
Follow Nichole on Twitter @NicholeDWBZ, and you can find Lauren @LaurenDezenski.
This primary cycle is unique due to the number of challenges to long-time incumbents. Lauren says the world of Massachusetts politics tends to be a place where you "wait your turn":
Lauren says, when it came to picking the date for today's primary, several factors came into play:
The 7th Congressional race has attracted nationwide attention. Lauren explains why - and what a win for Boston City Councilor Ayanna Pressley over the incumbent, Representative Michael Capuano, could mean for other races this election cycle:
Recent polls show Pressley remains behind - but the gap is not insurmountable. Lauren says, if Pressley is able to effectively organize and get her supporters to the polls, she could take a win:
Over in the 1st Congressional race, long-time incumbent Representative Richard Neal faces a challenge from a Springfield attorney, Tahirah Amatul-Wadud. Lauren says Neal - who is arguably the most powerful member of the state's delegation - is taking this race seriously:
The 3rd Congressional race is downright packed, with 10 candidates up for the Democratic slot - all to try and fill the seat that's being vacated by outgoing Representative Niki Tsongas. Lauren says this will likely be a close one:
Secretary of State William Galvin has held the office for several terms - and he now has a challenger in Boston City Councilor Josh Zakim. Lauren says this race has had its share of contention:
When it comes to the race for Governor, Charlie Baker could be tough to beat, as he consistently polls as one of the most popular governors in America. Lauren says he has competition from both sides going into November:
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