Corey O’Connor’s win in the 2025 Democratic mayoral primary marks a key moment for Pittsburgh politics. By defeating incumbent Mayor Ed Gainey, O’Connor not only changed the course of the election but also signaled a shift in what many voters want from city leadership.
This blog looks at what shaped the election, the issues that mattered most, and what O’Connor’s win could mean for the future of Pittsburgh. Pittsburgh personal injury lawyers follow local developments closely, because decisions at City Hall affect the neighborhoods we live and work in every day. Our commitment to community safety includes staying informed and helping residents understand what changes might be ahead.
Election Overview
O’Connor won the primary with 53% of the vote, beating Mayor Gainey by around 4,300 votes. It was a close race, but the outcome was clear. This is now the second time in a row that a sitting mayor in Pittsburgh has lost a primary, which is unusual and worth paying attention to.
With the city’s strong Democratic base, O’Connor is widely expected to win the general election against Republican nominee Tony Moreno. If that happens, Pittsburgh will see a new mayor in office by the end of the year.
O’Connor’s Background
O’Connor has been involved in city government for years. He served on Pittsburgh City Council from 2012 to 2022, representing District 5. In 2022, he was appointed Allegheny County Controller, where he managed the county’s finances and worked to make government spending more transparent.
He also comes from a well-known local family. His father, Bob O’Connor, was elected mayor in 2005 but passed away in 2006. Corey’s campaign acknowledged this history but focused more on his own record and plans for the future.
Key Campaign Issues
Housing
Housing was one of the main differences between O’Connor and Gainey. While Gainey pushed for inclusionary zoning across the whole city, O’Connor supported a more targeted approach, focusing on specific neighborhoods with the most need. This idea appealed to voters who were looking for practical, flexible solutions rather than citywide rules that might not fit every area.
Public Safety
O’Connor also focused on stability within the police department. Under Gainey’s administration, the city went through five police chiefs in less than four years. O’Connor said this created confusion and made it harder for both officers and residents to feel confident in leadership. He promised a more stable approach moving forward.
City Finances
Financial management became another focus during the campaign. O’Connor raised concerns about high overtime spending and questioned whether the city’s budget was on a sustainable path. Given his background as Controller, he used these concerns to build support around the idea of responsible budgeting and better oversight.
Working with Nonprofits
O’Connor also proposed a new strategy for dealing with large, tax-exempt nonprofits like UPMC and Carnegie Mellon University. While they don’t pay property taxes, O’Connor said they benefit from city services and should be contributing more to support them. He suggested working out voluntary payments or agreements to bring in funding without raising taxes on residents.
Voter Turnout and Community Response
Turnout in the primary was higher than usual, showing that voters were engaged and ready for change. Many said they appreciated O’Connor’s direct approach and focus on specific, local issues.
After the election, O’Connor stood at a busy intersection in the rain holding a “Thank You” sign — a simple gesture that mirrored what his father once did after his own election win. It was a quiet moment that stuck with a lot of people and helped underline the personal connection he brings to the role.
What Comes Next for Pittsburgh
O’Connor’s win suggests the city may be heading in a more practical, community-focused direction. His approach to housing, safety, and city finances seems to be aimed at solving problems one step at a time, rather than with sweeping changes.
He’s expected to bring a steady leadership style, especially after a period that some residents felt was marked by too much turnover and not enough communication. People will be watching closely to see if he delivers on his promises, especially around transparency and financial accountability.
Conclusion
Corey O’Connor’s victory in the Democratic primary is a clear sign that Pittsburgh residents are looking for something different — leadership that listens, plans carefully, and focuses on real-world results. As the general election approaches, voters will continue to pay attention to how O’Connor handles the spotlight and prepares for office.
At Pittsburgh Injury Lawyers, P.C., we’ll continue to follow these changes closely. We’re here to support our clients and community, not just through legal help, but by staying informed on the decisions that affect daily life in our city.