9 hours ago - Politics

Lynch survives Roath's primary challenge

Mike Deehan

Rep. Stephen Lynch speaks at a podium during the FieldHouse+ groundbreaking ceremony in Dorchester. — Rep. Stephen Lynch speaks in Dorchester on April 17, 2025. Photo: Stuart Cahill/Boston Herald via Getty Images

South Boston Rep. Stephen Lynch turned back a stiff primary challenge from attorney Patrick Roath on Tuesday, according to the Associated Press.

Why it matters: Lynch's win, in the Boston and South Shore-based district he's held since 2001, shows voters preferred experience and familiarity over new blood.

State of play: Roath, 39, outpaced Lynch on TV ad spending as the race heated up this summer.

Roath had attacked Lynch's moderate voting record, including his opposition to the Affordable Care Act and support for the Laken Riley Act.
Lynch, 71, campaigned on his seniority and committee standing, arguing experience matters in countering President Trump's administration.

What's next: Lynch advances to the November general election, where he's heavily favored.

The bottom line: Both major primaries where age was a factor went to the older incumbent in Massachusetts.

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Lynch survives Roath's primary challenge

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