Boston Mayor Race Intensifies in AI Era

Published Date: 20/07/2024

Josh Kraft, head of the New England Patriots Foundation, is making moves towards a potential mayoral run against incumbent Mayor Michelle Wu, who is expected to seek re-election.

The race for Boston's top job is heating up, with Josh Kraft, head of the New England Patriots Foundation, making moves towards a potential mayoral run against incumbent Mayor Michelle Wu. Despite denials from his spokesperson, Kraft has been holding talks and making statements that suggest he is eyeing a 2025 campaign. 

Meanwhile, Mayor Wu is gearing up for a re-election bid, with a new sign in Chinatown asking for support and a campaign account flush with $1.5 million. Kraft, who would have access to his family's wealth, has also been making moves, including registering to vote in Boston and assuming the chairmanship of the Urban League of Eastern Massachusetts. 

As the mayoral race takes shape, the city is also embracing the potential of artificial intelligence, with a state task force set to make final recommendations on how to encourage its use. Gov. Maura Healey is pushing for a $100 million Applied AI Hub, and state agencies are already implementing AI tools developed by Northeastern University's RIVeR Laboratory to improve services.

FAQS:

Q: Is Josh Kraft a candidate for mayor of Boston?

A: According to his spokesperson, Josh Kraft is not currently a candidate for mayor and has no plans or timeline for any kind of an announcement.

Q: Has Mayor Michelle Wu made a formal re-election announcement?

A: No, Mayor Wu has not yet made a formal re-election announcement, but she has taken steps to prepare for a potential campaign, including fundraising and updating her campaign sign in Chinatown.

Q: What is Josh Kraft's background?

A: Josh Kraft is the head of the New England Patriots Foundation and has a background in philanthropy and nonprofit work, including serving as CEO of the Boys and Girls Clubs.

Q: What is the state's AI task force doing?

A: The state's AI task force is making final recommendations on how to encourage the use of artificial intelligence in Massachusetts, with a focus on 'responsible' AI.

Q: How much is Gov. Maura Healey proposing for an AI hub?

A: Gov. Healey is proposing $100 million for an Applied AI Hub through this cycle's economic development bill.

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