Page 2 THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FRiDAy, SEPTEMbER 4, 2026 ELECTION | FROM PAGE 1 “I’m truly blessed to be around the best team in the world,” he said. “I would like to acknowledge my opponent, Zosia. It takes a lot of Moxie to put yourself out there, and there’s a lot of respect there,” he said. Meaney has campaigned on a “top priority” to lower the cost of living for residents in the district. It includes three major goals: a ban on predatory algorithms that inflate mortgage and rent prices, a freeze on the construction of AI data centers that are inflating energy bills, and a universal pre-K program across the state. When asked for comment, VanMeter issued a written statement titled “WE ARE STILL MOVING FORWARD TOGETHER.” Candidate for State Representative of the 9th Essex District Zosia VanMeter accepts the results of today’s Democratic primary election against Pete Meaney. “I was told to write two speeches, one if I win and one if I don’t. I decided to write one.” Zosia says, “Because win or lose, I’m proud of myself and my team for every day that has been put into this journey. We have met so many people and “WE’RE STILL HERE!” Since 1947 MALDEN AUTO BODY Book online: Maldenauto.com 49 Robin St., Everett, MA 617-389-3030 * Maldenab@yahoo.com Over 79 years of exceptional service! Massone Family Owned & Operated CELEBRATING WITH HIS SUPPORTERS: Lynn City Councilor Pete Meaney (third person from the left in the second row) savored a convincing victory over his opponent, Lynn Inspectional Division Director Zosia VanMeter, in Tuesday’s Democratic Primary for the right to challenge state Rep. Donald Wong (R-Saugus) for his 9th Essex District House seat in November. (Courtesy photo to The Saugus Advocate) so many neighbors and organizations along the way, and I’m proud of the relationships that we were able to build and foster, as well as the trust that was bestowed in me by voters. The end of this campaign does not mean the end of the work needed to bring us together around the pressing issues we’re all facing. We know that the work still needs to be done and I am here every step of the way.” She continues, “You will still find me very active in the grassroots organizing sphere and advocating for our community. The only difference is which office it’ll be from. “Zosia extends her congratulations to Meaney for his win and looks forward to building alongside the constituency that will make way for the 9th Essex District to enter a new chapter. Zosia VanMeter is a candidate for State Representative of the 9th Essex District of Massachusetts. Her campaign is focused on affordable housing, education, public safety and transparent government. She is a leader in municipal government and community organizing.” VanMeter was asked what her plans are for the Nov. 3 General Election. “I will be spending time between now and November 3rd helping other progressive candidates THE CHALLENGER: Lynn City Councilor Pete Meaney, who won Tuesday’s Democratic Primary for the 9th Essex District House seat, will be state Rep. Donald Wong’s first opponent in four elections when the two face each other in November. (Courtesy photo to The Saugus Advocate) THE INCUMBENT: State Rep. Donald Wong (R-Saugus) seeks his ninth two-year term representing residents of the 9th Essex House District. (Saugus Advocate photo by Mark E. Vogler) make it to the finish line! When we fight, we win,” VanMeter answered. So, she could be involved in multiple campaigns, not necessarily the 9th Essex House District race, she was asked. “I have no idea what I will or will not be involved with, but I know my participation in the democratic process in general doesn’t end with this campaign,” she said. The turnout for Tuesday’s primary in Saugus was 4,559 of the 22,835 registered voters – about 20 percent. There were 2,927 Democratic ballots cast and 1,632 for the Republican Party candidates. These are the unofficial results released Tuesday night by the Saugus Town Clerk’s Office for the contested races, which mirrored the statewide results: ELECTION | SEE PAGE 7
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