Liz Breadon elected Boston City Council president in last-minute upset

Why it matters: The council president controls committee assignments and serves as acting mayor during the mayor's absence.

State of play: Breadon, who was nominated and supported by those on the council closest to Wu, secured a narrow 7-6 victory.

• That came after a weekend of palace intrigue that upended what appeared to be a certain win for Councilor Brian Worrell.

Catch up quick: East Boston Councilor Gabriela Coletta Zapata claimed she had the votes for the presidency in November but suddenly withdrew Sunday evening, setting Worrell up to win.

• Reports say Councilors Sharon Durkan and Enrique Pepén visited Breadon's home Sunday night and urged her to jump in as a compromise candidate.
• Some councilors suggested Wu's allies orchestrated the last-minute maneuvering.

What she's saying: "I didn't know I would be standing here this time yesterday, but that said, I am ready to lead," Breadon told colleagues at the council's opening meeting.

The big picture: The 66-year-old physical therapist becomes the first openly gay female councilor to lead the body.

• She succeeds Ruthzee Louijeune at the top post.