State Rep. Ed Gainey To Challenge Pittsburgh Mayor Bill Peduto

PITTSBURGH, PA — State Rep. Ed Gainey will attempt to thwart Pittsburgh Mayor Bill Peduto's quest for a third term. Gainey announced he will run against Peduto in the May 18 Democratic primary, the de facto mayoral election in a city that hasn't had a Republican mayor since the 1930s.

Gainey made the announcement in a Facebook post.

"I'm running for mayor because I know that the working people of Pittsburgh need opportunities for good union jobs with a living wage and benefits, affordable housing, genuine public safety and a city where we can all belong and contribute," he stated. "We can uplift the city of Pittsburgh for everyone if we start with those who have been left behind."

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.

Peduto announced last week he would seek another term. He first was elected mayor in 2013 and was re-elected in 2017. Prior to that he served on Pittsburgh city council from 2002 until being elected mayor. He also served as chief of staff to his predecessor on council, Dan Cohen.

Retired city police officer Tom Moreno also is running for mayor.