UPDATE: Boston City Councilor Gabriela Coletta Zapata is facing potential legal repercussions after being caught on police body cam footage engaging with a voter inside a polling place during early voting hours for the September 30, 2025 preliminary election. This incident raises urgent questions about compliance with Massachusetts law, which strictly prohibits political activities within 150 feet of a voting location.
The footage, released by the Boston Police Department following a public records request, shows Coletta Zapata in a heated exchange with a police officer who requested her to vacate the area. The councilor was reportedly discussing policy with a constituent, asserting, “I’m not campaigning. I’m having a conversation with a constituent right now.” However, the law clearly states that electioneering and campaigning are forbidden at polling sites, making her presence there a potential violation.
Massachusetts Secretary of State Bill Galvin has emphasized the importance of the 150-foot rule, stating that enforcement is the responsibility of the presiding officer at polling locations. The body cam video reveals Coletta Zapata questioning the officer’s authority, asserting her right to converse about policy matters. “I appreciate you, but this is the first time I’ve ever dealt with this,” she remarked.
The timing of this encounter is particularly critical, as Coletta Zapata recently claimed she has secured the necessary votes to become the next City Council president, a position that would place her as the second-highest ranking official in Boston, just behind Mayor Michelle Wu. Her actions during early voting could jeopardize her political ambitions, especially with a contested reelection bid looming.
Legal experts are weighing in on the matter. Harvey Silverglate, a constitutional attorney, stated that Coletta Zapata’s presence likely constitutes a violation of state election laws. “There’s an 80% chance she’s wrong,” he said, suggesting that a formal complaint could lead to significant consequences.
In response to the incident, Coletta Zapata has publicly stated that she was not engaged in political activity and viewed her interaction with the officer as a misunderstanding. She provided a photo with the officer, Christian Cuascet Hernandez, taken days later, further emphasizing that her intent was not political. “I thought we had a misunderstanding about my purpose there,” she said in a statement.
The Boston City Councilor’s future hangs in the balance as officials have not yet received any formal complaints regarding her conduct at the polling place. However, the Secretary of State’s office remains silent on whether the video will prompt an investigation.
As this story develops, local officials continue to express their concerns. Councilor Ed Flynn stated, “As elected officials, we must treat our first responders, police officers and city employees with respect.”
The implications of this incident could be significant not only for Coletta Zapata but for the integrity of the electoral process in Boston. As voters head to the polls, the impact of her actions may resonate in the upcoming election, fueling discussions about proper conduct and the boundaries of political engagement during voting hours.
Stay tuned for more updates as the situation unfolds.
