Wu and Kraft Advance to Boston Mayoral general Election, Campaigns Clash over Depiction and Results
Following Tuesday’s preliminary election, Boston Mayor Michelle wu and challenger Josh Kraft will face off in teh November general election. The results have sparked contrasting narratives about the state of the race and the needs of Boston residents.Wu, addressing supporters tuesday night, framed the election as a pivotal moment for the city. She asserted the results demonstrate a need for the mayor to be accountable to “the people of Boston, not a handful of billionaire donors.” She positioned the next eight weeks as a “test of who we are,” questioning whether Boston will remain “a home for everyone” and “a beacon of freedom,” particularly in light of current political challenges.
Kraft, who substantially self-funded his campaign and set spending records for a Boston mayoral preliminary election, also criticized attacks from former president Trump.Though, he countered Wu’s narrative by arguing she was using Trump as a distraction from her own record. Speaking to Ironworkers Local 7 in South Boston, Kraft stated his motivation for running stems from a desire to represent residents who feel unheard, promising to “deliver better streets, better schools, and a better future for them today.” He specifically highlighted housing as an area where Wu has fallen short, claiming she hasn’t done enough to increase affordability and options.
Kraft emphasized a grassroots approach, stating his campaign has “never been about chasing headlines or currying favor with the political chattering class. It’s been about listening.” He believes a disconnect exists between the Wu administration and Boston residents,irrespective of “race,socioeconomics,ethnicity,[or] language.” Despite polls suggesting a lead for Wu, Kraft expressed confidence, asserting, “Polls don’t decide elections. People decide elections.”
The former CEO of the Boys and Girls Club of Boston acknowledged the need for significant work to close the apparent gap in support, but views the general election as a “clean slate.” He was joined at his watch party in South Boston by his brother Jonathan Kraft and father, New England Patriots owner Robert Kraft.Wu and Kraft advanced past two other candidates in the preliminary election: Robert Cappucci, a former school district committee member and veteran, and Domingos Darosa, a community activist. The general election is scheduled for November 4th.
