Mary Lupien to challenge Malik Evans for mayor

Rochester City Councilmember Mary Lupien is set to challenge Mayor Malik Evans in the upcoming mayoral election. Though not yet officially announced, her campaign manager, Dylan Dailor, confirmed her candidacy. Lupien, a Democrat representing the East District, believes Evans has focused too heavily on infrastructure projects, such as the ROC The Riverway initiative, instead of addressing immediate needs of Rochester residents.

Lupien has been an outspoken advocate for tenant rights, affordable housing, and reimagining public safety by having trained professionals respond to mental health crises instead of police. Known for her controversial stances, including on police funding and international issues like a Gaza ceasefire resolution, she aims to bring innovative solutions to the city’s challenges.

Evans, who recently announced his reelection bid, highlighted a reduction in violent crime under his leadership and framed infrastructure investments as vital for the city’s growth. Lupien’s entry into the race follows the announcement by Shashi Sinha, a local entrepreneur and IT expert, making it a competitive Democratic primary. Lupien plans to make her candidacy official by the end of January.

Source: Rochester First