Boston Mayor Michelle Wu Faces Fall Challenge from Josh Kraft
BOSTON – Boston Mayor Michelle Wu will face a challenge from community leader Josh Kraft in the November election, setting the stage for a perhaps competitive race in a city traditionally favoring Democratic candidates. kraft, a longtime advocate for youth development, is attempting too capitalize on voter concerns about accessibility and connection to the Wu management.
Wu, who took office in 2022, has become a prominent voice for progressive policies and a visible target of criticism from former President Donald Trump and his allies. A political analyst quoted by CNN noted that Wu has evolved into “a symbol of democratic resistance to the president,” a dynamic Kraft will need to overcome, particularly in a city like Boston.
Kraft is positioning himself as a candidate focused on bringing positive change and addressing a perceived disconnect between the mayor’s office and residents. In an interview with The Associated Press, Kraft asserted that conversations with voters suggest Wu’s hold on the mayoralty isn’t as secure as polls might indicate. “Everywhere we go…we hear the same thing: People don’t feel listened to, people don’t feel connected to the mayor and the mayoral administration,” he said. “Some of the polls have a big margin, but let me tell you something: Polls don’t decide elections. People decide elections.”
Kraft’s campaign is highlighting his decades-long commitment to Boston’s youth, including his tenure as CEO of the Boys & Girls clubs of Boston. Supporters like Remy Lawrence, a Dorchester resident, point to his personal outreach during difficult times as evidence of his leadership qualities.Lawrence recounted Kraft’s support after her 13-year-old son,Tyler,was fatally shot in Mattapan in 2023,while participating in Kraft family youth programming.
“I believe we need change in this city – I know we need change in this city,” Lawrence stated. “we need a leader who is accessible, who’s accountable, who’s connected.” Kraft has strategically shifted his messaging between directly criticizing Wu and emphasizing his vision for a more responsive city government.
