Thomas O’Brien Withdraws from Boston Mayoral Race, Leaves Kraft in Competition

BOSTON, Mass. — Thomas N. O’Brien, a prominent real estate developer, announced on Monday that he will not run for mayor of Boston, a decision that has shifted the landscape of the upcoming election.

Initially, multiple sources indicated that the 61-year-old O’Brien intended to file his candidacy this week, potentially raising the stakes in the election against incumbent Mayor Michelle Wu and fellow challenger Josh Kraft. However, O’Brien reversed his decision over the weekend.

“I gave thoughtful consideration to running for mayor of Boston because I care deeply about this city and have always looked for meaningful ways to serve,” O’Brien said in a statement. “After many conversations with people I know, trust, and admire, I’ve decided not to pursue a political candidacy at this time. Instead, I will continue my work with The HYM Investment Group and my engagement in Boston’s charitable and civic life.”

O’Brien, who is known for his role as the former head of the Boston Redevelopment Authority and as the founding partner of The HYM Investment Group, has been instrumental in significant development projects throughout Boston, including Boston Landing in Brighton and the NorthPoint campus along the Boston-Cambridge-Somerville line.

His decision not to run is particularly notable as it would have presented a considerable challenge to Kraft, who announced his intention to run earlier this year. O’Brien’s extensive network in the business community has frequently aligned with developers critical of Wu.

“My commitment to Boston remains unwavering,” O’Brien added. “I’ll keep working to make our city a more affordable, inclusive, and vibrant place to live, work, and thrive — and I look forward to partnering with Mayor Wu, her administration, and others to help achieve that vision.”

O’Brien had been preparing to unveil his campaign platform, which would have focused on important issues such as immigration and housing.

O’Brien’s exit leaves Josh Kraft, son of billionaire Patriots owner Robert Kraft, to challenge Wu alone. “I understand that running for office is a deeply personal decision,” Kraft stated in a response. “I have great respect for Tom and his commitment to many community organizations.”

Meanwhile, Mayor Wu is expected to formally announce her re-election campaign this Saturday in the South End, as she works to solidify her position ahead of November’s election.

The race had taken an unexpected turn earlier in March when Wu defended her position in a testimony before Congress about public safety and immigration enforcement, boosting her national visibility as she prepares for a potential rematch.

Recent campaign finance data reveal that Kraft has raised approximately $567,000 since February, with notable contributions coming from prominent business executives. In contrast, Wu has nearly $1.8 million in cash available according to her finance report.

Political analyst Joyce Ferriabough Bolling commented on the implications of O’Brien stepping away from the race. “In a three-way matchup, O’Brien and Kraft would have split the business constituency, potentially paving a clearer path for Wu’s victory,” she said.

As the election date nears, housing affordability remains a pressing topic for city councilors, with discussions taking place on possible adjustments to existing affordable housing policies. These developments outline the key issues likely to dominate the campaign as Mayor Wu seeks to secure a second term.