Gainey Defeats Peduto In Seismic Shift In Pittsburgh

PITTSBURGH, PA — A historic shift in Pittsburgh politics and government occurred Tuesday when state Rep. Ed Gainey defeated incumbent Bill Peduto in the city's Democratic mayoral primary.

Gainey, 51, is virtually assured of being the city's next mayor as there is no Republican challenger in November's general election. He likely will become the city's first Black mayor.

"Thank you for your support," Gainey stated on Twitter "I appreciate your prayers, inspiration, and motivation during this mayoral campaign. Without you, this victory could not have been possible. It is because of you we made history and have an opportunity to build a city for all."

Gainey, 51, of Lincoln-Lemington, has represented the 24th Legislative District since 2013. The district includes his neighborhood as well as Homewood,East Liberty, East Hills and
Wilkinsburg, which is just outside the city border.

Gainey is a former aide to Joe Preston, his predecessor as the district's representative. He also worked for the city in a community and economic development position.

Gainey garnered a number of impressive endorsements, including the Allegheny County Democratic Committee, an endorsement Peduto did not seek. Gainey also was endorsed by organizations such as the Alliance for Police Accountability PAC, Center for Popular Democracy,
Western PA Black Political Assembly, the 14th Ward Independent Democratic Club, Steel
City Stonewall Democrats, Young Democrats of Allegheny County and the International Union of Operating Engineers Local 66.

Peduto, 56,has been mayor since 2014. Prior to that, he served on city council since 2002. He was elected in 2013 after two previous failed attempts to win the mayoral race.

As for Peduto's plans when he leaves office?

"I have no idea what that future may be.," Peduto stated on Twitter. " Didn’t run with a Plan B. My next six months will be to help all those who assisted me in government & politics. That won’t be hard, as they are incredibly talented individuals."