Boston’s Unique Mayoral Election in 2025
Boston voters headed to the polls today, but for many, the mayor’s race was already decided: incumbent Michelle Wu stands as the sole candidate for reelection after challengers failed to reach the general ballot. This rare unopposed run comes after Wu’s preliminary election landslide—she earned more than 70% of votes, setting the stage for another four-year term as the city’s leader.
How Wu Won a Near “Free Ride”
Wu’s strong performance in the September preliminary forced major rivals to step aside. Nonprofit executive Josh Kraft, her most visible opponent, withdrew after a resounding loss and other contenders, like activist Domingos DaRosa, failed to gain enough support to challenge Wu’s progressive vision for Boston’s future. Wu’s strategy has centered on building a broad neighborhood coalition, maintaining popular sanctuary city policies, lowering crime rates, and emphasizing inclusivity, affordability, and sustainable growth.
Voter Turnout and Boston’s Political Landscape
While some analysts worried that an uncontested race might lower turnout, thousands of residents still cast ballots in city council contests, which remain competitive and could affect Wu’s ability to advance her agenda. State officials estimated nearly 100,000 city residents would participate this cycle, helped by early voting and mail-in ballots. Boston’s progressive majority is expected to hold, with most council incumbents likely to secure reelection.
Wu’s Legacy and the Road Ahead
Michelle Wu made history as Boston’s first Asian and female mayor, and her reelection signals strong approval of her leadership style among the city’s diverse voters. With local discontent aimed more at the national political climate than City Hall, Wu is positioned for another term with broad public support and a stable city government.