Jehlen and Mackey perform strong in debate poll

The results of the informal poll conducted at the Somerville News’ Democratic debate for the 2nd Middlesex state Senate seat have been finalized. Joseph K. Mackey was deemed the winner of the night, but State Rep. Patricia D. Jehlen still walked away as the predicted winner, according to the poll.

The questionnaire distributed at the outset of the debate, asked audience members five questions.  The results are as follows:

Which candidate was the most knowledgeable of local issues?

Patricia Jehlen :            50%

Joseph Mackey :            44%

Paul Casey  :                 3%

Michael Callahan :          2%

Who demonstrated the most oratorical skill?

Mackey :                        57%

Jehlen :                         28%

Casey :                          8%

Callahan :                       4%

Which candidate provided the best rebuttal answers?

Mackey :                         42%

Jehlen :                          37%

Casey :                           5%

Callahan :                       4%

Who do you think won the debate this evening?

Mackey :                          49%

Jehlen :                           43%

Callahan :                        3%

Casey :                            3%

If the election was held today, who would you vote for?

Jehlen :                          48%

Mackey :                         45%

Callahan :                        3%

Casey :                            3%

The caandidates are vying for the seat vacated by the death of Charles E. Shannon Jr. The democratic primary will be August 30th and the general election will be September 27th.