Democrat Corey O’Connor Wins Pittsburgh Mayor’s Race
Corey O’Connor, a Democrat and son of a former Pittsburgh mayor, has been elected as the city’s 62nd mayor. He previously served on the City Council for ten years and later as the Allegheny County Controller.
The Mayoral Contest
O’Connor ran against Republican Tony Moreno, a retired city police officer who also sought the mayor’s office in 2021. Pittsburgh has not elected a Republican mayor since the generation of O’Connor’s grandfather.
Election Night
The Associated Press declared O’Connor the winner at 8:26 p.m. At his election party in the IBEW Local #5 hall on the South Side, supporters applauded as the announcement was made over the public-address system:
“We have a special announcement. Corey O'Connor has won.”
O’Connor then addressed the crowd, expressing gratitude and invoking the memory of his parents:
“I’m humbled and honored by the great honor and privilege of serving as Pittsburgh's next mayor.”
“I'm sure Mom and Dad are happy somewhere tonight.”
He also shared the emotional challenge of following his father’s footsteps:
“It's hard for me to talk about [following his father into office] tonight.”
Primary Victory
Earlier this year, O’Connor defeated incumbent Mayor Ed Gainey in the Democratic primary, paving the way for his general election success.
Summary
Corey O’Connor’s election as Pittsburgh’s mayor continues his family’s legacy while marking a significant victory in a city with deep Democratic roots.