Tsongas, Ogonowski Favorites In Massachusetts Special Election

The polls are closing in Massachusetts’ Fifth District, where voters will be choosing their nominees to replace Rep. Martin Meehan (D-Mass.), who left Congress to serve as president of UMass-Lowell on July 1.

Niki Tsongas is the frontrunner for the Democratic nomination by virtue of her high name recognition, strong fundraising, and key endorsements. Tsongas, however, has made several gaffes on the campaign trail, and has no elective experience of her own. In a special election, turnout is notoriously unpredictable and three of her rivals may be within striking distance of an upset.

Lowell City Councilor Eileen Donoghue has placed a consistent second in polls, and has highlighted her 12 years of experience in local politics. She has put in over $300,000 of her own money, keeping her competitive financially.

State Rep. Barry Finegold is the field’s leading centrist. His campaign is hoping that their turnout operation can make the difference in a crowded, closely-contested primary.

State Rep. Jamie Eldridge has run as the most liberal candidate in the field, calling for an immediate withdrawal of troops from Iraq. He has touted his union endorsements, and also received backing from the liberal Democracy for America organization.

And conservative state Rep. Jim Miceli has lagged well behind the other four candidates in public polling.

On the Republican side, Jim Ogonowski is the overwhelming favorite against attorney Tom Tierney. Ogonowski’s brother was the pilot on one of the first hijacked planes that crashed into the World Trade Center on Sept. 11. He has highlighted the war on terror and immigration during his campaign.

Turnout has been reported to be very low, and is projected to be around 10 percent.  Polls close at 8 p.m.

Stay tuned for updates tonight on the Crypt as the results start trickling in.