Josh Kraft scores first main endorsement in his bid for Boston mayor

Longtime philanthropist Josh Kraft has notched his first main endorsement since launching his marketing campaign for Boston mayor towards the incumbent Michelle Wu, who has benefited from a slew of endorsements in latest weeks.

Kraft’s marketing campaign introduced immediately that the first-time political candidate has scored a key union endorsement from the Worldwide Longshoreman’s Affiliation (ILA), comprising 18 Boston locals that collectively characterize 700 members.

His marketing campaign additionally introduced the backing of the New England Dock and Marine Council, which represents 14 ILA locals and different union associates in New England — which brings a further 600 members who joined the Boston locals of their backing of the son of the billionaire New England Patriots proprietor Robert Kraft.

“As a union that stands for the rights, dignity and well-being of working families, we recognize the importance of strong leadership that not only envisions a brighter future for our city, but also takes action to make it a reality,” Bernie O’Donnell, ILA Worldwide vp, mentioned in a press release of the choice to again Kraft.

“Boston deserves a leader who not only sees its potential but also where things are moving in the wrong direction,” O’Donnell mentioned. “We believe Josh Kraft is that leader and ready to build a stronger, safer and more prosperous Boston.”

George McEvoy, ILA Atlantic Coast District vp, in a press release, touted Kraft’s “work with the Boys & Girls Clubs of Boston — both as a leader and on a day-to-day basis — as a contributing factor leading to the endorsement.

Kraft’s work at the Boys & Girls Club, where he spent 12 years as president and CEO, “has meaningfully changed lives by providing young people with opportunities, mentorship and a safe place to grow,” McEvoy mentioned.

“Josh also brings a fresh vision to Boston,” McEvoy mentioned. “He is not about politics as usual … He has always been about action and impact.”

Kraft, in a press release shared by his marketing campaign alongside remarks from O’Donnell and McEvoy, mentioned he was “humbled” by his first main union endorsement.

“Maritime shipping is one of the cornerstones of a healthy and vibrant Boston economy,” Kraft mentioned. “Just six weeks into our campaign, I couldn’t be more humbled and grateful to have the support of our longshoremen whose many members embody the best of Boston in so many ways.”