Election Day can be full of contention, but at Santarpio’s Pizza in Eastie, the division subsides as officials and candidates running for office come together for lunch.

Electeds from the past, present and future converged on the pizzeria Tuesday to celebrate 50 years of the Election Day lunch, a tradition dating back to 1973.

Michael LoPresti, a former state senator from Eastie, started the annual lunch to “put aside political differences, come together as a community, and break bread,” said City Councilor Gabriela Coletta, who ran unopposed for the District 1 seat.

“Public service isn’t easy for anyone right now,” said Coletta, the host of Tuesday’s meal. “It’s essential we have good people who are rooted in community and centering the work.”

Boston City Councilor Gabriela “Gigi” Coletta speaks at the Santarpio’s Election Day lunch. (Matt Stone/Boston Herald)
Boston City Councilor Gabriela “Gigi” Coletta introduces Mayor Michelle Wu to her little nephew at the Santarpio’s Election Day lunch. (Matt Stone/Boston Herald)
Boston City Councilor’s Ruthzee Louijeune and Gabriela “Gigi” Coletta at the Santarpio’s Election Day lunch. (Matt Stone/Boston Herald)