Boston City Council at-large race: Erin Murphy

Politics

“Whether it’s families priced out, seniors feeling isolated, or city workers commuting an hour each way, too many Bostonians feel like the ground keeps shifting under their feet.”

Erin Murphy has served on the City Council since 2021 and is up for reelection as an at-large candidate.

Find out more about Erin Murphy on her campaign website and social media.

The following responses have been lightly edited for clarity.

What is the biggest issue facing Boston residents at the moment and what do you believe the City Council should do to address this?

The biggest issue facing Boston right now isn’t just housing, it’s stability. Whether it’s families priced out, seniors feeling isolated, or city workers commuting an hour each way, too many Bostonians feel like the ground keeps shifting under their feet. I’ve lived that uncertainty myself as a single mom and longtime renter.

The City Council must make Boston livable again with affordable homes, reliable city services, and strong schools that keep families rooted in their communities. That also means holding ourselves accountable for how we govern. Too often what we say we value, like affordability, safety, and opportunity, gets lost in bureaucracy.

As a former teacher and now a City Councilor At-Large, I believe good government is about showing up, listening, and fixing what’s broken. That means streamlining housing approvals, improving 311 responsiveness, and making sure development truly reflects community input. When people can stay and trust their city to deliver, they invest. That’s what keeps Boston strong.

What makes you stand out from the other candidates in this race?

I’ve spent my entire life working with and for Boston families as a mom, a new grandmother, and a longtime Boston Public Schools teacher. My perspective comes from real life, from classrooms, neighborhood meetings, and kitchen table conversations about how to make our city better.

Over the past four years, I’ve shown up every single day for residents across Boston. I listen, I do the work, and I follow through. People know they can reach out to me, and I’ll show up in every neighborhood, on every issue, with respect and accountability.

I’m not afraid to push back on the administration and demand transparency when it matters most. What sets me apart is consistency and heart. I lead with honesty, experience, and a deep love for this city and the people who call it home.

Do you think the public has lost faith in the City Council in recent years? If so, what do you think should be done to improve the council’s public image?

Yes, I believe many Bostonians have lost faith in the City Council, and I understand why. Too often the headlines have been for the wrong reasons. Ethical lapses, public disputes, and a lack of collaboration have distracted from the real work residents expect us to do. The public deserves a council that takes its responsibility seriously and acts with professionalism and respect.

I’ve made it a priority to show up, stay focused, and lead with integrity. I take the role and the institution seriously, even when others do not. I’ve built strong relationships without compromising accountability, and I’ve spoken up when the council’s conduct hasn’t met the standard our city deserves. Rebuilding trust starts with professionalism, and I’ll continue to lead by example, with respect, transparency, and results.