Corey O’Connor, the current Allegheny County Controller, announced his candidacy for Mayor of Pittsburgh on Tuesday. At his announcement, O’Connor was surrounded by family and other elected officials.
O’Connor’s announcement focused on criticisms of current Mayor Ed Gainey, saying the incumbent was “managing decline” and that he’s “deeply concerned” the city “is sleepwalking towards another financial disaster” while crime is “far too frequent.”
O’Connor also blasted Gainey for “a lack of leadership”, saying there’s “no vision” for the city and communities in the city are “not getting the funding that they deserve.”
What used to be a foregone conclusion in Pittsburgh politics — a sitting mayor winning re-election — is anything but certain since Gainey unseated Mayor Bill Peduto in 2021. Now, Corey O’Connor wants to make Gainey the next incumbent to be toppled. https://t.co/vDosAD5wWT
— PublicSource (@PublicSourcePA) December 11, 2024
Gainey announced his intention to run for reelection earlier this year. After O’Connor’s announcement, Gainey responded by saying he welcomed the competition, suggesting it’s up to Pittsburgh residents to determine “who can best serve” them.
O’Connor previously served on city council, where he sponsored legislation to establish the city’s paid sick leave and several gun control bills. As County controller, a position he’s held since being appointed in 2022, he led audits on a variety of county programs and services.
As part of his agenda, O’Connor said he would focus on a “leaner city budget”, citing his time as County controller and his focus on government and program efficiency. O’Connor also emphasized what he calls the “main street theory”, in which retail, dining, and business investments are prioritized to revitalize neighborhoods.
Gainey and O’Connor will face off in the Democratic primary.
