Boston Councilor Caught Politicking in Polling Place During Vote

BREAKING: Boston City Councilor Gabriela Coletta Zapata is under scrutiny after being filmed engaging with a voter inside a polling location, raising questions about potential violations of state election laws. The incident occurred during early voting hours for the upcoming September 30, 2025 preliminary election, leading to an urgent examination of her actions.

Newly released police body cam footage shows the 33-year-old councilor having a tense discussion with a Boston police officer, who was attempting to enforce the state’s strict 150-foot rule prohibiting political activity near polling places. Officials confirm that electioneering, campaigning, and related activities are banned during voting hours, a law designed to ensure voter neutrality.

The video, obtained by the Boston Herald, captures Coletta Zapata arguing with Officer Christian Cuascet Hernandez while she reportedly spoke to a constituent in East Boston. “I’m having a conversation with a constituent right now, and I’m not campaigning,” she insisted, despite the officer’s warning against her presence in the voting area.

As this controversy unfolds, Coletta Zapata has positioned herself as a candidate for the City Council presidency, claiming she has secured the necessary votes for the role. The timing of her interaction raises alarms, as she faces a contested reelection bid.

In a statement, Coletta Zapata described the encounter as a “misunderstanding,” emphasizing that she was merely discussing policy. She stated, “I thought we had a misunderstanding about my purpose there, but I respect our members of the BPD and moved along.” However, legal experts suggest that her presence could be interpreted as a violation of state law, with one attorney estimating a 80% chance she could face penalties should an investigation be initiated.

Authorities have not yet received any formal complaints regarding the incident, and it remains unclear if an investigation will follow. As the situation develops, the public awaits further clarification on whether Coletta Zapata’s actions will impact her political aspirations, including her bid for leadership in the City Council.

The Boston Police Department has reiterated that the enforcement of the 150-foot rule falls to the presiding officer at polling locations, adding weight to the concerns raised by Coletta Zapata’s actions. Fellow councilors, including Ed Flynn, have commented on the importance of respecting law enforcement but have not directly addressed the potential legal implications for Coletta Zapata.

As the community watches this story unfold, the implications for local governance and election integrity are significant, highlighting the ongoing challenges faced by public officials during election cycles. This developing story is likely to have lasting effects on Coletta Zapata’s political future and the dynamics within the Boston City Council.

Stay tuned for updates as this situation continues to evolve.