Democrat Ed Gainey Declares Victory, Becoming Pittsburgh’s First Black Mayor

Gainey declared victory over Republican Tony Moreno, saying, "This is our city. This is our time."

By Jessica GuayNovember 3, 2021 at 8:00 am


By: KDKA-TV News Staff

PITTSBURGH (KDKA) – Democrat Ed Gainey has declared victory as Pittsburgh’s next mayor

Gainey gave a speech with family and supporters by his side, making history as the city’s first Black mayor. At that time, 67.66% of precincts were reporting with 38,151 votes for Gainey and 15,207 votes for Moreno.

Republican Tony Moreno conceded shortly after.

“Look at the image that we are showing our children. I want our children to see what a city for all looks like. I want our children to see that we don’t separate by divided lines, but we as one community, we as one city are here for them,” Gainey said.

He said that Pittsburgh could be safe and affordable, and he promised police-community relations that “don’t erode or divide, but unifies and multiplies.”

He ended by saying, “When Pittsburgh show up, we blow up.”

Mayor Bill Peduto congratulated Ed Gainey. “I look forward to working with you and your team on a progressive transition for the betterment of all of Pittsburgh. Here’s to the next chapter. Do great things!” Peduto tweeted.

In an upset, Gainey defeated incumbent Peduto in May.

Both Pittsburgh mayoral candidates cast their ballots Tuesday morning. As their campaigns came to a close, both tried to convince last-minute voters to buy into their campaigns.

It was still dark as Moreno cast his ballot at Destiny of Faith Church in Brighton Heights. A couple of hours later, Gainey cast his ballot at the Paulson Recreation Center in Lincoln-Lemington.

After both voted, they went to polling locations to drum up support.

If Moreno would have won, he would have also made history as the city’s first Republican mayor since the 1930s.