Despite her supporters' confidence, Gay's victory was far from assured at the beginning of the evening.

Before results rolled in, Buonomo's supporters, who gathered at the Holiday Inn on Washington Street, were certain that the long-time city official would come out ahead.

One of these confident supporters was Buonomo's aunt, Rose M. Earle.

"He's been at this for more than 18 years. My nephew knows every nook and cranny of this city...he knows how to look forward. Tonight is going to be a big victory," Earle said.

Therese E. Stile, a lifelong Somerville resident, also said that Buonomo's experience would help him win.

"I've known John for many years. He grew up with my children," Stile said. "It was his time to run for mayor. He's the most qualified to do so, in my estimation."

But as results for the first two reporting precincts came in, an audible sigh arose from the several hundred people attending Buonomo's planned victory celebration. Gay had won ward two, precinct one by 39 votes and ward two, precinct two by 35.

The mood lifted and audience members cheered when they heard their candidate had won the second precinct of ward one by 56 votes, but this was among the last bursts of optimism.