Corey O’Connor Defeats Incumbent Ed Gainey in Pittsburgh Democratic Primary

Corey O’Connor scored a significant political upset Tuesday, defeating incumbent Pittsburgh Mayor Ed Gainey in the Democratic primary, a race shaped by debates over city finances, affordable housing, and public safety.

With Pittsburgh historically voting Democratic in mayoral races—having not elected a Republican in nearly 100 years—O’Connor is now the clear favorite to win the general election this November.

Currently serving as Allegheny County controller, O’Connor is the son of former Pittsburgh mayor Bob O’Connor and had secured the endorsement of the local Democratic Party over Gainey.

Gainey, Pittsburgh’s first Black mayor and a prominent voice from the progressive wing of the party, rose to power in 2021 and positioned himself as a champion of everyday residents. He frequently clashed with Republican leaders, particularly during the Trump administration, and campaigned as a mayor who would “fight for the people.”

O’Connor, however, sharply criticized Gainey’s leadership, accusing him of mismanaging the city’s budget, failing to address a shortage in affordable housing, and lacking a plan to rejuvenate the downtown economy in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic and the steel industry’s decline. He also raised concerns about public safety and deteriorating city infrastructure, pointing to the breakdown of essential vehicles like snow plows and ambulances.

In contrast, Gainey pointed to a strong economy during his term, claimed credit for holding the line on taxes, and noted a decline in crime. He also blamed previous administrations for ongoing challenges.

O’Connor garnered support from developers and business groups, especially amid tensions surrounding Gainey’s housing strategy. His campaign, along with allied organizations, significantly outspent Gainey’s camp, which was backed by progressive groups like the Working Families Party and the SEIU.

Yet, support from unions was divided, and many housing advocates criticized Gainey for falling short on promises. O’Connor framed the city as on the brink of a financial crisis that could threaten public services, saying in a May 8 debate:


“That financial crisis is going to impact each and every one of us. It’s going to stop our ability to fill in potholes, to buy new ambulances, to keep our community safe.”

He accused Gainey of steering the city toward decline and pledged to reverse course.

Philadelphia DA Larry Krasner Wins Democratic Primary

Elsewhere in Pennsylvania, incumbent Philadelphia District Attorney Larry Krasner secured a primary win against challenger Pat Dugan, a former head judge of the city’s municipal court and U.S. Army veteran.

Krasner, who has faced impeachment efforts from Republican lawmakers and sustained attacks from former President Donald Trump, is known for his progressive approach to criminal justice reform. First elected in 2017, his platform includes opposition to the death penalty, eliminating cash bail, and ending mass incarceration.

Recently, Krasner has emphasized public safety, highlighting falling crime rates and new crime-solving technologies. He’s maintained that his office aggressively targets violent crime while continuing broader reform efforts.

Dugan attempted to paint Krasner as soft on crime, nicknaming him “Let ’em Go Larry,” and criticized him for hiring inexperienced prosecutors. He claimed Krasner had failed to deliver on meaningful reform or improved safety.

Both candidates referenced Trump during the campaign. Krasner portrayed himself as a bulwark against the former president and conservative interests, saying in one ad:


“They can come for Philly, but I’m not backing down.”

Dugan, meanwhile, warned that the city faced a triple threat: crime, injustice, and “a president bent on destruction.”

With primary victories in hand, both O’Connor and Krasner are now poised to carry their party’s momentum into November’s general elections.