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Thomas West Calls for Strong Leadership to Address City Budget Crisis
- friendsofthomaswes
- Mar 28
- 2 min read
With the city’s budget heading toward a significant crisis in just a few months, mayoral candidate Thomas West is calling for new leadership that prioritizes the needs of Pittsburgh’s residents and businesses. As the city faces mounting financial challenges, West is drawing a clear distinction between his approach and that of his opponents, Ed Gainey and Corey O’Connor.
“We cannot afford to continue down the same path,” said Thomas West, a business owner and candidate for mayor. “For more than 20 years, both Ed Gainey and Corey O’Connor have been in positions of power. Yet here we are, just a few years after exiting Act 47, and we’re already heading back into a financial crisis. Neither of them has shown they can lead Pittsburgh to prosperity or make the tough decisions needed to move us forward.”
West criticized the current leadership for their conflicting statements on the city’s financial status. While Gainey insists that the city is in good financial standing, O’Connor acknowledges the crisis yet has failed to provide solutions. West argues that both men have been part of the problem, and that Pittsburgh needs a fresh perspective and a leader who understands the importance of fiscal responsibility.
“As a business owner, I’m held accountable every day for balancing budgets and making tough decisions to keep my company running,” said West.
“If I fail, my business fails. Politicians like Gainey and O’Connor get a free pass, and Pittsburgh is paying the price. Our city deserves better.”
West also outlined his vision for the future of Pittsburgh, emphasizing the need for economic growth, public safety, and a focus on addressing the everyday needs of the community. He stressed that Pittsburgh must compete for businesses, families, and talent, and that ensuring the safety and well-being of the city’s first responders is crucial.
“We need to make public safety a top priority, from police to EMS,” West said. “We can’t have the people who are supposed to be rescuing us, needing to be rescued themselves.”
West also took aim at O’Connor’s recent attempts to use city buildings as a backdrop for his campaign, highlighting the long-standing issue of neglected infrastructure. “These dilapidated buildings have been a problem for decades, and Mr. O’Connor can’t pretend it’s a new issue. This is a problem he’s been part of, and Pittsburgh’s residents aren’t fooled.”
West concluded by urging Pittsburghers to demand real leadership and a new direction for the city. “We need to grow this city again, and we need to do it by focusing on the things that matter most to our families, our neighborhoods, and our businesses. It’s time for a change, and I’m ready to lead Pittsburgh toward a brighter future.”
Pittsburgh deserves a fresh start — and your voice matters. Support the campaign or contact the campaign team to learn how you can make a difference.
