Once they are elected, city councilors representing Boston’s districts tend to hold their seats until they voluntarily give them up. Perhaps one reason for this is that in a strong mayor form of government there are few opportunities for councilors to embarrass themselves. But Charles Yancey, who has been elected to 16 two-year terms, might be facing his political demise on Nov. 3.
Politics is an unforgiving profession. Just like with sports teams, people do not like losers. It is acceptable not to win, but for an experienced politician to be wiped out is embarrassing. There were 12 candidates for mayor in 2013 and Yancey came in 10th with only 2,389 votes, a mere 2.12 percent of the votes cast. He could have used his experience in city government to help elect a minority mayor, but he chose to run himself. Charlotte Richie finished in 3rd place only 5,300 votes from the winner, Marty Walsh. Instead, Yancey seemed to be a spoiler by simultaneously running to hold onto his city council seat.
Now Yancey must confront the political newcomer, Andrea Campbell, who defeated him 1982 to 1159 in the recent primary. District 4 voters are now in the enviable position of having two competent candidates from which to choose. Yancey has been outstanding in constituent services, and Campbell brings a charisma that has been missing from the district leadership. She can inspire community residents to outstanding achievements. Campbell is well qualified as a graduate of Boston Latin School, Princeton University and UCLA Law School.
When the Banner was founded in 1965 its motto was “Unity, progress, let’s do it ourselves.” Campbell understands that ethos. She claims that “the power to transform our community is within us.” And she plans to make it happen.
