WORCESTER—City Councilor Khrystian King has officially launched his second bid for mayor, casting himself as a leader willing to take on political dysfunction at City Hall. His announcement Thursday came with sharp criticism of the current administration, prompting a pointed response from Mayor Joe Petty.
King, who also filed to run for re-election to his at-large council seat, framed his campaign around issues of affordability, leadership, and government accountability.
“City Hall is failing you,” King said in his statement. “There is no real leadership, no accountability to residents, and the divisive politics is causing dysfunction. Meanwhile, housing prices and the cost of living are pushing both long-term and newer residents out.”
King pointed to his record on affordable housing, funding for youth programs, and transparency efforts. “In hard times, I lead,” he said, adding that he is running to “listen, lead, and deliver results.”
Mayor Petty, who has served in the role since 2012, responded with a strongly worded statement, taking aim at King’s record on the council.
“Councilor King has once again declared his candidacy for mayor,” Petty said. “As I stated in 2023, we have starkly different perspectives on what true leadership means and how best to advance Worcester’s future.”
Petty accused King of contributing to what he called “weekly chaos and gridlock” in City Hall while running on a platform of transparency. He also referenced King’s involvement in an Open Meeting Law dispute, saying his campaign message contradicts his actions.
“Worcester deserves a mayor who provides stable, inclusive leadership—someone who genuinely unites the community, rather than deepening its divides,” Petty said.
King’s bid sets up a mayoral contest that will likely center on the city’s political tensions and the future direction of Worcester. Election Day is Tuesday, Nov. 4.
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