Barrett loses in North Adams, Ruberto wins in Pittsfield

PITTSFIELD, Mass. - Two well-established mayors in Berkshire County faced strong challenges on Election Day. Only one got another term.

In North Adams, John Barrett lost to Richard Alcombright. Barrett was seeking a 14th term. He was the longest serving mayor in the state of Massachusetts.

In Pittsfield incumbent Mayor Jim Ruberto has defeated Daniel Bianchi. It was an unbelievably tight race with Democrat Ruberto winning by a percentage point.

Speaking to supporters, Ruberto acknowledged it was a difficult battle against a tough opponent.

But that was only half of this emotionally draining campaign. This summer, Ruberto's wife Ellen passed away.

"I've suffered a number of tragedies this year, but you see that full moon and next to it, you'll see a star. Mom just passed away last week and both of them are up their guiding the city of Pittsfield," he said.

Celebrating with supporters, Ruberto says going forward economic recovery, education, affordable housing and public safety will continue to be his top priorities.

Across town it was a tough loss to swallow for the Bianchi camp. Even with winning 10 of the 14 precincts in the city, Bianchi came up a little short. Still he says the voters spoke and the mayor needs to listen.

"I think when you take a look at where people voted, how people voted, the message set out. I hope the mayor realizes there are so many people in the city that want to be listened to," Bianchi said.

"Under these circumstances, under the incredible turmoil that is taking place politically, where you want to throw the rascals out, the fact that we have sustained, really shows the people of Pittsfield support a progressive agenda," Ruberto said.