Edwards wins special election, low turnout in Revere

  Lydia Edwards is officially the next state senator for Revere and the 1st Suffolk and Middlesex District. The Democratic East Boston City Councilor ran unopposed in Tuesday’s special general election to replace Joe Boncore, who resigned his seat to take a job in the private sector.

  Edwards faced a tougher challenge in the primary, where she defeated Revere School Committee member Anthony D’Ambrosio. D’Ambrosio did take over 75 percent of the vote in Revere in the primary.

  With no opponent for Edwards, and no hometown candidate in the race, Tuesday’s turnout in Revere was miniscule. Only 285 people voted, with 239 of those votes going to Edwards, 34 write-ins and 12 blank ballots.

  “I am grateful to the people of Boston, Cambridge, Revere and Winthrop for sending me to Beacon Hill to fight for our communities,” said Edwards in a statement declaring victory. “I know how to fight for what you believe in, build a movement and win, and I am looking forward to continuing the work in the state house.

  “When in 2014 we passed the Domestic Workers Bill of Rights, we showed the world that nannies and housecleaners can write laws: they know as workers, as women, as immigrants and people of color, about the dignity they deserve and they know when our government needs to do more to guarantee their rights and wellbeing,” Edwards continued.

  Edwards said she will fight together with residents for laws and the social conditions that protect people, communities and the planet. “I am excited for the journey ahead,” she said.