By JEFF SHMASE
PEABODY — Voters in 15 of the city’s 19 precincts today will go to the polls on an unseasonably warm day to cast ballots in a special election primary for one of five candidates who hope to become the next 12th Essex state representative.
First time candidates and Republicans Jaclyn Corriveau and Stephanie Peach are running, as are Democrats James Moutsoulas, Tom Walsh and Craig Welton. One Republican and one Democrat will move on the special election final on March 1, which coincides with the Massachusetts presidential primary. Today’s winners will face off against Unenrolled candidate Christopher Gallagher next month.
The state rep. hopefuls will be looking to replace Republican Leah Cole, who resigned abruptly last September. Since then, Peabody has lacked representation, though state Sen. Joan Lovely (D-Salem) and state representative Ted Speliotis (D-Danvers) are advocating on behalf of Peabody.
Corriveau is touting her connection to Gov. Charlie Baker as a reason she can get things done in Peabody. Baker appointed her to the Advisory Council for Refugees and Immigrants. Corriveau added that she has been very involved in volunteer activities in the city, including stints with Green Peabody, the Haven from Hunger and the farmers’ market.
Peach was Cole’s right hand for two-plus years, serving as her legislative aide. She said she knows the players in the State House, which she believes will help her hit the ground running.
On the Democratic side, Moutsoulas is touting his experience in municipal government, including 15 years as a city councilor, as a reason why he should become the next state representative. Moutsoulas cited his relationships with constituents in getting things done.
Like Corriveau and Peach, Welton has never run for political office. He is married and the father of three young children, and serves as the executive director of Best Buddies, an organization that pairs up individuals with learning or physical disabilities with mentors. Welton said he believes the city needs to use its status as a Gateway City to better position itself for state funding.
Walsh might be the most well-known of the group, having served in both elected municipal and state government roles. Currently, Walsh is serving his second term as well as second stint on the City Council and, before that, he was a member of the School Committee. From 1987-1995, Walsh was the 12th Essex state representative. Walsh said if elected he would work diligently to bolster the city’s economy by competing for state funds.
Polls are open in Wards 1-4, and Ward 5, Precincts 1 and 3, from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m.