McReynolds uses emphasis on term limits to stun long-time incumbent in 5th Ward primary

QUINCY — Laura McReynolds, a Quincy businesswoman making her first attempt at political office, handily defeated long-time incumbent Mike Rein in Quincy’s 5th Ward.

“I’m very excited,” McReynolds said. “I’m a little bit like, wow, OK, this is really happening … I’m excited because I just really I want to be a part of this momentum and this growth and what’s happening, and I think I’ll be good for City Hall.”

McReynolds won all six precincts in the 5th Ward and grabbed 625 votes (64.6 percent of the vote) to Rein’s 342.

McReynolds said she believed her emphasis on term limits and bringing a fresh perspective to the office made a difference.

“I do think the term limit thing resonated with a lot of voters,” she said. “Mike’s been there 25 years. He’s a nice guy, but it’s time for some new energy.”

The McReynolds campaign consisted of phone calls, signs and door-to-door visits. She said she knocked on nearly 1,000 doors.

“I had such a great team of people who were calling people and getting out the word,” she said. “It’s amazing to me how few people vote in a primary election. I think having those great supporters and that great team to get out the word for you helped.”

McReynolds will not have an opponent in the April 1 general election, so she can put away her campaigning shoes.

“I wore good shoes for winning the election, absolutely,” she said. “I had waterproof high tops on.”

Rein, who has been on the Quincy City Council since 1999, did not return calls or texts on election night. He will be on the City Council until the end of April.

MRN Editor David Adam contributed to this story.