Somerville, September 17, 2025
News Summary
Incumbent Somerville Mayor Katjana Ballantyne has failed to advance to the general election after a surprising third-place finish in the recent city primary. City councilors Jake Wilson and Willie Burnley Jr. will face off in the general election, showcasing a significant shift in power dynamics. Ballantyne’s campaign had notable support but ultimately could not secure enough votes to continue. The upcoming general election promises to be highly competitive as both remaining candidates focus on citywide campaigning.
Somerville
Incumbent Somerville Mayor Katjana Ballantyne failed to advance to the general election after finishing third in the city primary held on September 15, 2025. Unofficial results reported with all precincts counted show Jake Wilson, a city councilor, leading the race with 41.85% of the vote, followed by city councilor Willie Burnley Jr. with 33.73%. Ballantyne finished third with 23.3% and conceded the race the night of the primary. Wilson and Burnley will face each other in the general election on November 4, 2025.
Key details
All precincts in Somerville have reported results for the mayoral primary. The primary outcome means the incumbent mayor will not appear on the general election ballot, and two councilors will proceed to the final contest. Ballantyne had served two terms as mayor and received notable endorsements during the campaign, including support from the governor. Ballantyne publicly acknowledged the end of her campaign and expressed pride in the progress made during her tenure as she exited the race.
What the results mean
The primary outcome sets up a head-to-head general election between two current city councilors. With Wilson holding the plurality of primary votes and Burnley finishing second, both will now shift focus to citywide campaigning ahead of the November general election. The result also marks a change in leadership dynamics for Somerville, as the incumbent mayor will not continue into a potential third term.
Additional contests and turnout
Alongside the mayoral contest, the September 15 primary included several races for councilor-at-large and other municipal offices. Those contests may reshape the city council composition depending on general election outcomes. Officials reported full reporting from precincts, providing an official count basis for planning ahead of November.
Background and context
Katjana Ballantyne was elected mayor previously and completed two terms in office. Her administration emphasized local projects and initiatives that she and supporters said laid a foundation for future city work. Despite endorsements from high-profile figures, the primary shows the electorate favored two councilors for the upcoming general election. Municipal elections in Somerville are scheduled on the same cycle that will culminate in the November 4, 2025 general election for the mayoral seat and other local offices.
Next steps
Both Jake Wilson and Willie Burnley Jr. are expected to continue campaigning through the fall. Candidates who did not advance may choose to endorse one of the finalists or engage in other city civic activities. Voters will decide between Wilson and Burnley in the November general election, which will determine Somerville’s mayor for the next term.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who advanced from the Somerville mayoral primary?
City councilors Jake Wilson and Willie Burnley Jr. finished first and second in the September 15 primary and will advance to the general election on November 4, 2025.
What were the primary vote percentages?
Unofficial results with all precincts reporting show Jake Wilson at 41.85%, Willie Burnley Jr. at 33.73%, and incumbent Katjana Ballantyne at 23.3%.
Did the incumbent concede?
Yes. The incumbent mayor acknowledged the primary outcome and conceded the race the night of the primary.
When is the general election?
The Somerville mayoral general election is scheduled for November 4, 2025.
Were other positions on the ballot?
Yes. The primary also included councilor-at-large races and other city positions that will be decided or carried forward toward the general election.
Did the incumbent have major endorsements?
Ballantyne had received prominent endorsements during her campaign, including support from the governor.
Quick reference table
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Primary date | September 15, 2025 |
| General election date | November 4, 2025 |
| Leading candidate | Jake Wilson — 41.85% (advances) |
| Second place | Willie Burnley Jr. — 33.73% (advances) |
| Incumbent | Katjana Ballantyne — 23.3% (did not advance); served two terms; received notable endorsements including the governor |
| Precinct reporting | 100% of precincts reported |
| Other contests | Councilor-at-large and other municipal positions were also contested in the primary |
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Additional Resources
- NBC Boston: Somerville Mayor Voted Out on Primary Night
- Cambridge Day: Somerville Elections – Preliminary and Endorsements
- Boston Globe: Boston Area Mayors’ Races to Watch
- Masslive: Election Preview
- Wikipedia: Somerville, Massachusetts
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