BOSTON — The annual St. Patrick's Day breakfast brought together politicians, laughter, and lively debates as they traded barbs and showcased their rivalries. This year’s event stood out not only for its festive atmosphere but also for the strong emphasis placed on key local issues, centered around the Boston mayoral race and the drive to audit the state legislature.
On March 16, 2025, Massachusetts State Senator Nick Collins, hosting this year's breakfast, emphasized the need for improved security at the famed St. Patrick’s Day parade, stating it would be "family-friendly" after the challenges faced last year. Collins addressed the media, assuring attendees about the heightened security measures being implemented.
The spotlight was clearly on the Boston mayoral race, prominently featuring incumbent Mayor Michelle Wu and challenger Josh Kraft. With both candidates present, the breakfast turned competitive, with playful jabs flying across the room. Mayor Wu, known for her humorous yet pointed comments, held up posters of Kraft's father and former President Donald Trump. “Josh is running as a man of the people, and it's true,” she said, referencing Kraft's living situation. “He is currently living in subsidized housing, a $2 million condo subsidized by dad's company.”
Kraft was quick to respond, countering with his own humor. He remarked, “Spring is in the air in Boston,” adding, “Scaffolding swaying in the Back Bay breeze, the sweet scent of pot wallowing through Boston Common.” This lighthearted banter energized the crowd, with laughter echoing throughout the venue.
Continuing on the competitive spirit, Kraft took aim at Wu’s preparations for her upcoming congressional hearing. He quipped, “You know, she brought so many people there my dad offered her the team plane to get down and back.” Emphasizing the light-hearted nature of their rivalry, Kraft's delivery highlighted his intent to connect with voters.
Collins, serving as the breakfast host, shifted some of the focus onto Wu’s policies by criticizing her management of Boston's bike lanes. “Fix the roads, Mayor Wu, it ain't the state, it's on you. Ditch the bike lanes,” he asserted, echoing concerns many residents share about transportation issues.
Auditor Diana Dizoglio was also part of the lively exchanges, as she urged Attorney General Maura Healey to enforce laws allowing her to audit the legislature. She proclaimed, “I got her all the information she needs to enforce the law,” displaying confidence about her role. Punctuating her remarks, she even sang about her commitment to the task at hand, asserting, “So get louder, let this Italian tell them to listen we're gonna audit you.”
Senate President Karen Spilka contributed to the discussion by hinting at potential gubernatorial aspirations for Dizoglio, saying, “I have a feeling there might be an auditor there, too.” This comment sparked laughter among attendees and prompted Dizoglio to hold up a sign reading “false,” showcasing her willingness to engage with the playful atmosphere.
Not to be outdone, Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey made her presence felt at the breakfast. She poked fun at the rumors circulating about her own ambitions on the national stage, remarking, “One little appearance on Seth Meyers. A New York Times interview photoshoot podcast. A couple more podcasts like Fast Politics with Molly Jong now available on Apple, Spotify, iHeart.” Healey's light-hearted quips reflected her ability to address both local and national expectations.
The breakfast also saw politicians directing their humor toward former President Donald Trump, particularly his controversial efforts to reshape government and cut federal jobs. Their jibes underscored the political climate leading up to what is shaping up to be another heated election season.
Each political participant shared their perspectives, enriching the breakfast with insights on pressing local issues. The festive atmosphere allowed for fruitful discussions combined with moments of levity, urging attendees to reflect on the importance of community engagement and transparent governance.
While the St. Patrick's Day breakfast is often remembered for its jovial spirit, this year's event underscored significant themes for residents, from public safety and infrastructure to political accountability. With the Boston mayoral race heating up, attendees got not only their yearly dose of Irish charm but also the pointed political commentary they have come to expect. The engaging repartee between Wu and Kraft encapsulated the competitive nature of Boston politics, setting the stage for the coming election. Politicians left the breakfast scene not just as rivals but as entertainers, symbolizing the vibrant political culture distinctive to Boston.