GOP Donors Back Challenger in Pittsburgh Mayoral Primary

Prominent Republican donors are funding Corey O’Connor’s campaign in a Democratic primary against incumbent Mayor Ed Gainey, Pittsburgh's first Black mayor and a progressive leader.

Major GOP donors, including billionaire Jeffrey Yass, are financially supporting Corey O’Connor in his bid to unseat progressive Pittsburgh Mayor Ed Gainey in the Democratic primary.
O’Connor’s campaign has received significant contributions from Republican-aligned donors, raising concerns among progressives about external influence on the race.
Mayor Gainey, who has championed progressive policies on housing, immigration, and public safety, faces criticism from real estate and conservative interests targeted by his reforms.
O’Connor, while presenting himself as a progressive, has drawn support from donors and groups tied to Trump and right-leaning agendas, raising questions about his political alignment.
The primary outcome could have broader implications for the progressive movement and Democratic party dynamics in Pennsylvania, a key battleground state.