Steve Dibble, Kim Driscoll Eye Spirited Salem Mayoral Campaign

SALEM, MA — Salem mayoral challenger Steve Dibble called Tuesday's preliminary election a "checkpoint" for candidates as they seek office in the city.

Having become one of two two candidates to pass that checkpoint in the race to be the city's next mayor, Dibble said he is now looking forward to six weeks of "debates, gatherings, presence and spending" as he looks to unseat four-term incumbent Kim Driscoll.

Driscoll was the top vote-getter in the preliminary election with 60.5 percent of the vote to Dibble's 37.4 percent. Challenger Frank Perley III, a lifelong Salem newcomer and political first-timer, received 2.2 percent.

The preliminary election turnout was 21.5 percent of eligible voters.

"A huge thank you to the Salem residents who helped us advance to the general election," Dibble said in a statement on Wednesday. "We greatly appreciate the help from our volunteers, campaign staff, and donors. Thank you for your trust and faith in me.

"The preliminary serves as a checkpoint for many candidates. There is plenty of work to do, and now the campaign begins. The next six weeks will be heavily active with debates, gatherings, presence and spending. Stick around, and don't miss out"

Driscoll issued a similar statement Wednesday — thanking her supporters and saying she is looking forward to the remainder of the campaign.

"Thank you Salem!" Driscoll said. "Grateful for a win in this preliminary election. Thanks to a fabulous group of volunteers, an outstanding campaign team and the many voters who helped us advance to the general election!

"I appreciate your support and confidence. Looking forward to meeting more neighbors and continuing to work hard to earn your vote over the next six weeks. Let's continue this momentum and ensure Salem is a community that works for and welcomes everyone!"

Salem voters went to the polls on Tuesday and in early voting to choose the two mayoral finalists and to narrow four city council races.

In Ward 1, incumbent Robert McCarthy and challenger Belle Steadman will move on to face each other on Nov. 2.

In Ward 2, it will be Caroline Watson-Felt and James Zavaglia.

In Ward 4, it will be Leveille McClain and Stephanie Rodriguez.

In Ward 7, it will be Andrew Varela and Francis Riggieri.

Dibble opted not to run for re-election in Ward 7 in order to challenge Driscoll

"To the candidates that moved on, congratulations!" he said in his statement. "Enjoy the moment and keep at it! For the individuals that didn't move on, please don't let this moment discourage you from running again.

"We will always need good people to put themselves out there to represent our community."

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(Scott Souza is a Patch field editor covering Beverly, Danvers, Marblehead, Peabody, Salem and Swampscott. He can be reached at Scott.Souza@Patch.com. Twitter: @Scott_Souza.)

More Patch Coverage: Salem 2021 Mayor's Race: It's Driscoll vs. Dibble

Salem Votes 2021: Preliminary Election Guide