Michelle Wu Democratic Advocate Under National Spotlight in Boston Re-Election Bid

Boston Mayor Michelle Wu officially launched her re-election campaign this Saturday. Her announcement comes after months of national visibility, including testimony before Congress and an appearance on The Daily Show. The 40-year-old Democrat delayed the formal launch due to the birth of her daughter, Mira, in January. Her speech to lawmakers on Boston’s immigration policies catapulted her as a key figure within the Democratic Party.

Challenges and Rivals Kraft Aims to Break a Streak Dating Back to 1949

Wu will face Josh Kraft, son of the New England Patriots owner, who aims to become the first to defeat an incumbent Boston mayor since 1949. Community activist Domingos DaRosa is also in the race. If the contest remains competitive, a preliminary election will be held on September 9. Kraft, also running as a Democrat, is trying to distance himself from his father’s political ties to Donald Trump.

A Republican Target A Strong Voice for Democrats

In recent weeks, Wu has been the target of sharp Republican criticism. She was summoned to Congress along with the mayors of Chicago, New York, and Denver to respond about their cooperation with immigration authorities. Her firm answers and defense of Bostonian values during the hearing won her support on social media. “Anything that raises her profile works in her favor,” said Alan Berube of Brookings Metro.

The Trust Act and the Immigration Debate

Boston’s Trust Act, in effect since 2014 and reaffirmed in 2024, prohibits police from cooperating with deportations without a judicial warrant. Wu has defended the policy as a way to build community trust and reduce crime. ICE recently reported the detention of 400 immigrants in Massachusetts, while figures like former Trump official Tom Homan have criticized the local policy.

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Unprecedented Police Union Endorsement in Three Decades

Wu has maintained steady popularity and recently secured the endorsement of the Boston Police Patrolmen’s Association — the first time the union has backed a sitting mayor in over 30 years. The city also recorded a historically low number of homicides in 2023. “Rain or shine… Boston will continue to stand up for its people,” Wu said in her State of the City address.

Kraft Promises Budget Cuts and More Affordable Housing

Kraft, 57, has the backing of labor unions that previously supported Wu. His campaign focuses on lowering housing costs and cutting what he calls the “bloated” city budget. While Boston shows low crime rates, he argues that quality-of-life issues persist, making many residents “feel unsafe.”

Poll: Wu Leads by a Wide Margin, But Room for Surprises Remains

According to a February poll by Emerson College, Wu holds 43% of voter support compared to Kraft’s 29%, with 24% still undecided. Analysts note that her recent national spotlight could strengthen her local leadership, but caution that the race is still far from over.