Boston Councilor Gabriela Coletta Zapata Caught Politicking in Polling Place

BREAKING: Boston City Councilor Gabriela Coletta Zapata is facing scrutiny after being caught on police body camera footage interacting with a voter inside a polling place, a potential violation of Massachusetts election laws. The incident occurred on August 30, 2025, during early voting for the upcoming September preliminary election, raising serious questions about her conduct.

In the footage obtained by the Boston Herald from the Boston Police Department, Coletta Zapata can be seen in a heated discussion with a police officer who urged her to leave the polling location in East Boston. Massachusetts law strictly prohibits political campaigning and electioneering within 150 feet of polling places during voting hours, a rule emphasized by state officials.

Coletta Zapata, who is vying for the City Council presidency, argued with the officer, claiming, “I’m having a conversation with a constituent right now, and I’m not campaigning.” The officer firmly responded, “You cannot have it within the voting area.” The councilor left after asserting that she was discussing policy, not soliciting votes.

This controversial exchange has sparked immediate concern and debate over the legality of her actions, especially as she recently claimed to have secured the necessary votes to become the City Council president for the next term starting in January.

Legal experts weigh in, with constitutional attorney Harvey Silverglate stating that Coletta Zapata’s presence in the polling place likely constitutes a violation of state law. “I think it’s likely a violation,” he remarked. Silverglate noted that while her defense is arguable, the chances of her being penalized if an investigation is initiated are significant.

Despite the backlash, Coletta Zapata released a statement to the Herald, describing the incident as a “misunderstanding.” She clarified that she was not engaging in political activity, but merely conversing with a voter after delivering pizzas to the polling site. In her defense, she shared a photo with Officer Christian Cuascet Hernandez taken days later, reiterating her respect for the police.

Concerned citizens are closely monitoring the fallout from this incident, especially as the state’s Secretary of State, Bill Galvin, has not received any complaints regarding Coletta Zapata’s presence at the polling site. The implications of this encounter could extend beyond the election, potentially impacting her bid for the presidency of the City Council.

As the situation develops, officials have yet to clarify whether the controversial footage will trigger an investigation. Fellow council members, including Ed Flynn, have commented on the necessity of respecting law enforcement but have refrained from addressing the legality of Coletta Zapata’s actions.

With the September election approaching, this incident adds a layer of complexity to the political landscape in Boston. Voters and political analysts alike will be watching closely to see how this situation unfolds and its potential impact on Coletta Zapata’s political future.

Stay tuned for further updates as this story develops.