Callaghan says he won't run again, teases new opportunity to 'serve' constituents

Rochester Mayor Paul Callaghan (Courtesy photo)

ROCHESTER - Rochester Mayor Paul Callaghan on Friday unexpectedly announced his decision to not run for a third term.

"I will not be filing for re-election as your Mayor," he wrote in a statement to city residents. "This was not an easy decision, but it's time for me to step away, take a breather, and enjoy spending time with my new grandson. As many of you know, during this past term, I faced the personal challenge of a rare cancer diagnosis. Under the care of an extraordinary team of doctors and nurses in Boston, I am pleased to say that I am well on the road to recovery and feeling good."

Callaghan said he felt his biggest accomplishments were reviving the downtown, building a new school, and keeping taxes the lowest in the region,.

"I am proud of all that we have accomplished together," he said. "I am also grateful to have worked alongside so many talented and dedicated public servants at City Hall. We truly have the best municipal team in the state."

Callaghan was first elected to office in November 2021 when he easily defeated Palana Hunt-Hawkins and Cassie Borne. In 2023 he won again over Rochester resident and frequent critic Susan Rice.

In his statement to residents on Friday Callaghan also teased that he may have some additional news for residents in the near future.

"I look forward to announcing some exciting news in the coming months about how I can continue serving the people of Rochester," he added.