Politics

Developer Thomas O’Brien says he’s not running for Boston mayor after weighing bid

“My commitment to Boston remains unwavering.”

Tom O'Brien announced Monday he will not run for mayor in Boston. David L. Ryan / The Boston Globe, file

March 31, 2025

1 minute to read

Real estate developer Thomas O’Brien announced Monday he will not run for mayor of Boston.

The managing partner at The HYM Investment Group, who worked at the Boston Redevelopment Authority under former Mayor Tom Menino, had been reportedly mulling over a potential run against incumbent Mayor Michelle Wu this year.

In a statement Monday, O’Brien said he gave “thoughtful consideration” over whether he would throw his hat into the mayoral race, citing his deep care for the city.

“The value of service — to others and to community — is something my parents instilled in me, a core part of my faith and a guiding force in both my professional life and personal life with my wife, Tricia, and our family,” he said. “After many conversations with people I know, trust and admire, I’ve decided not to pursue a political candidacy at this time.”

Instead, O’Brien said he will continue his work with The HYM Investment Group and remain engaged with “Boston’s charitable and civic life.”

“My commitment to Boston remains unwavering,” he said. “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.”

Wu is set to officially launch her campaign for re-election on Saturday. Already, she has secured the endorsement of five labor unions and favorable polling results show her leading her most high-profile challenger, Boston philanthropist Josh Kraft. Community activist Domingos DaRosa, who unsuccessfully ran for at-large seats on City Council in 2017, 2019, and 2021, has also announced a mayoral bid to challenge Wu.