Healey backs Kelley bid for City Council
Attorney General Maura Healey is wading into the hotly contested District 2 City Council race by endorsing one of the top two candidates, a decision one former councilor called a bold move for the high-profile Democrat and possible challenger to Gov. Charlie Baker in 2018.
“You don’t make these endorsements lightly because there are paybacks,” former City Councilor Larry DiCara told the Herald. “What’s the payback if you’re on the wrong side of a City Council race? It’s less — but there is payback involved.”
In a press release yesterday, Healey endorsed Mike Kelley, a former aide to Mayor Thomas M. Menino, for the District 2 spot being vacated by Bill Linehan. Kelley’s chief challenger is Ed Flynn — a 20-year military veteran and the son of former Mayor Raymond L. Flynn — who has the support of another top Democrat, South Boston U.S. Rep. Stephen Lynch.
“The people of District 2 have a chance to elect a councilor who shares our values and will work tirelessly with partners across government to address the challenges we face and the many opportunities before us,” Healey said in a statement. “As City Councilor, Mike Kelley will bring people, organizations and government together to find solutions that help everyone and I look forward to working in partnership with him.”
Although DiCara said Lynch’s Southie roots made him a powerful ally in District 2 — which includes Bay Village, Chinatown, part of the South End and South Boston — he acknowledged Healey’s backing could bring in votes that would normally stay home in a local contest.
“If it’s a close race, there may be 100 people in that district who don’t think about the City Council, but if they get something from Healey, that may get them out to vote,” DiCara said.
In a statement, Flynn campaign spokesman Adam Webster said, “Ed is running an inclusive district-wide campaign and he’s proud of the support he’s getting from every community in District 2.”