WORCESTER—Ted Kostas, a District 4 resident and longtime business owner, is making another bid for City Council, this time challenging incumbent Luis Ojeda for the seat. Kostas, who has previously supported both Donald Trump and Robert F. Kennedy Jr., is one of the rare openly Republican candidates in Worcester’s overwhelmingly Democratic political landscape.
Kostas, a member of the Worcester Republican City Committee, has campaigned on issues including housing, taxes, public safety, and education. He has pledged to fight for fiscal responsibility, lower residential and commercial property taxes, and 0% property taxes for seniors over the age of 65. His platform also calls for increased housing development, road repairs, city cleanliness initiatives, and support for Worcester police.
In an interview with the Worcester Guardian, Kostas said his campaign is driven by concerns he hears from families and small business owners across the district.
“As I walk through our neighborhoods, I see the faces of our community—families, workers, and small business owners,” Kostas told the Worcester Guardian. “We are at a critical juncture, facing challenges that demand our immediate attention and action.”
Housing, he said, is at the top of the list. “Too many of our friends and neighbors are struggling to find affordable housing. It’s not just about having a roof over our heads; it’s about stability, security, and the opportunity to thrive. I am committed to working tirelessly to create more affordable housing options, ensuring that every Worcester resident has a place to call home.”
Kostas highlighted his experience in business, real estate, and human services as preparation for city leadership. He has owned multiple businesses, worked in real estate development, and today works in mental health with Open Sky, supporting individuals facing substance abuse challenges.
“These experiences have not only honed my skills but have also instilled in me a sense of fiscal responsibility that I carry into every aspect of my work,” Kostas said.
If elected, Kostas said his top priorities include reducing property taxes, expanding housing, improving road conditions, balancing the city budget, creating shelters and treatment options for Worcester’s homeless population, and supporting small businesses.
On public safety, Kostas pledged to address the rise in crime and drug overdoses in Worcester, particularly the impact of fentanyl. “Supporting our Worcester Police Department is essential in keeping our streets safe,” he said.
When asked how he would navigate Worcester’s overwhelmingly Democratic electorate, Kostas said leadership should go beyond political labels.
“I believe that true leadership goes beyond party lines. My purpose is strictly to serve the people of Worcester,” he told the Worcester Guardian. “We need leaders who prioritize the needs of our community above political affiliations.”
Kostas has also emphasized the importance of resident involvement. He said he plans to establish Resident Advisory Boards across District 4 and hold regular community meetings. “This is not just about listening,” Kostas said. “It’s about creating a high-level form of participation where engaged residents can have a direct impact on the issues that matter most.”
Born and raised in District 4, Kostas describes his candidacy as rooted in family and community values. “For 40 years, I have immersed myself in the world of business, navigating through food service, real estate investments, and development,” he said. “As a husband and father, my personal life intertwines with my professional aspirations, fueling my passion for the future of District 4.”
The race for District 4 will be decided in the Nov. 4 general election.
This article is part of the Worcester Guardian’s 2025 election coverage. As part of our ongoing series, we are publishing individual candidate profiles and stories related to key issues facing the city ahead of the Nov. 4 municipal election. We have reached out—or are in the process of reaching out—to every candidate running for Worcester City Council and School Committee. If you are a certified candidate and would like to ensure you are included, please contact us at carsenault@theworcesterguardian.org.
