Boston, October 22, 2025
News Summary
Former Boston mayor Marty Walsh has endorsed Alexandra Valdez in her race for the City Council at-large position, following her sixth place finish in the preliminary election. Valdez, a Dominican immigrant and city official, emphasizes affordable housing and education in her campaign for the general election set for November 4, where she will compete with seven other candidates.
Boston — Former Boston mayor Marty Walsh endorses Alexandra Valdez for the City Council at-large race. The general election is set for November 4.
Key endorsements and election timing
The endorsement from Walsh represents a significant boost to Valdez’s campaign as she moves from the September preliminary election into the general election. Valdez previously garnered the sixth position out of ten candidates in the September preliminary election. The eight candidates advancing to the general election include Valdez and current Councilors Ruthzee Louijeune, Julia Mejia, Erin Murphy, Henry Santana, former Councilor Frank Baker, and newcomers Marvin Dee Mathelier and Will Onuoha.
Candidate background and City Hall experience
Valdez is a mother, Dominican immigrant, and first-time candidate. She currently serves as the director of the mayor’s office of cultural affairs. Valdez has worked at City Hall for approximately 10 years during Walsh’s tenure as mayor. Valdez has received endorsements from several other current and former elected officials.
Endorsement details and campaign implications
Walsh described Valdez as dedicated and hard-working and said she would be a great addition to the council. Walsh praised Valdez’s contributions at City Hall and her potential to be a strong advocate for Boston residents. In a statement, Valdez expressed her honor to receive Walsh’s support and appreciation for his mentorship throughout her career. She acknowledges Walsh’s trust in her as a young professional and how it helped shape her policy priorities.
Walsh also endorses Frank Baker, indicating a broader support for candidates who provide balance in the council. Boston Mayor Michelle Wu previously voted for Valdez and other incumbents in the at-large race.
Policy focus and campaign priorities
Her campaign focuses on affordable housing, quality education for all students, and community development and public services. Valdez’s platform seeks to address displacement, improve access to education, and enhance everyday quality of life for Boston residents.
Political context and council dynamics
The at-large race could influence the political dynamic in Boston and affect Mayor Wu’s influence on the council. Current council dynamics have been criticized for lacking checks on the mayor’s power. Walsh’s endorsement comes as a significant boost to Valdez’s campaign and may shape how the council balances priorities in the coming term.
What voters will see next
With the general election set for November 4, campaigns will intensify on outreach, fundraising, and policy messaging. Voters will choose from the slate of eight candidates advancing from the preliminary round, including several incumbents and newcomers who present a range of policy priorities.
How Valdez frames her candidacy
Valdez positions her candidacy around community-centered issues tied to lived experience and municipal experience. Her focus areas emphasize preventing displacement, expanding educational access, and improving basic public services across Boston neighborhoods.
FAQ
Who endorsed Alexandra Valdez?
Former Boston mayor Marty Walsh endorses Alexandra Valdez for the City Council at-large race.
When is the general election?
The general election is set for November 4.
What is Alexandra Valdez’s background?
Valdez is a mother, Dominican immigrant, and first-time candidate. She currently serves as the director of the mayor’s office of cultural affairs.
How long has Valdez worked at City Hall?
Valdez has worked at City Hall for approximately 10 years during Walsh’s tenure as mayor.
How did Valdez perform in the preliminary election?
Valdez previously garnered the sixth position out of ten candidates in the September preliminary election.
Who are the candidates advancing to the general election?
The eight candidates advancing to the general election include Valdez and current Councilors Ruthzee Louijeune, Julia Mejia, Erin Murphy, Henry Santana, former Councilor Frank Baker, and newcomers Marvin Dee Mathelier and Will Onuoha.
What issues does Valdez emphasize in her campaign?
Her campaign focuses on affordable housing, quality education for all students, and community development and public services. Valdez’s platform seeks to address displacement, improve access to education, and enhance everyday quality of life for Boston residents.
Did other major figures weigh in on the at-large race?
Walsh also endorses Frank Baker, indicating a broader support for candidates who provide balance in the council. Boston Mayor Michelle Wu previously voted for Valdez and other incumbents in the at-large race.
Quick reference table
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Endorser | Former Boston mayor Marty Walsh endorses Alexandra Valdez for the City Council at-large race. |
| Election date | The general election is set for November 4. |
| Candidate profile | Valdez is a mother, Dominican immigrant, and first-time candidate; currently serves as the director of the mayor’s office of cultural affairs. |
| City Hall experience | Valdez has worked at City Hall for approximately 10 years during Walsh’s tenure as mayor. |
| Preliminary result | Valdez previously garnered the sixth position out of ten candidates in the September preliminary election. |
| Candidates advancing | The eight candidates advancing to the general election include Valdez and current Councilors Ruthzee Louijeune, Julia Mejia, Erin Murphy, Henry Santana, former Councilor Frank Baker, and newcomers Marvin Dee Mathelier and Will Onuoha. |
| Campaign priorities | Affordable housing; quality education for all students; community development and public services. Valdez’s platform seeks to address displacement, improve access to education, and enhance everyday quality of life for Boston residents. |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Boston City Council Election Narrows Candidates for November
Boston City Council Preliminary Election Results Narrowed
Boston’s 2023 Election Cycle Heats Up
Boston District 7 Election Intensifies with Candidate Dynamics
Additional Resources
- Boston Globe: Marty Walsh Endorses Alexandra Valdez
- Jamaica Plain News: Q&A with Alexandra Valdez
- Dorchester Reporter: Alexandra Valdez’s Citywide Vision
- MassLive: Early Results in Boston’s City Council Election
- Wikipedia: Boston City Council
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