WOONSOCKET – City Council President Daniel Gendron has announced that, “after overwhelming encouragement from residents across the city and conversations with constituents throughout Woonsocket,” he will officially run for mayor this year.
Gendron said the decision comes after months of discussions with community members, local leaders, business owners, and families eager to see strong leadership focused on moving Woonsocket forward.
“This is a decision that I do not take lightly, and one that I have put a great deal of thought and consideration into,” said Gendron in a release. “I have spent years working hard for the people of Woonsocket and fighting for the issues that matter most to our residents. After hearing from so many constituents who encouraged me to take this step, I have decided to run for mayor because I believe deeply in this city, its people, and its future.”
Gendron will run against incumbent Mayor Chris Beauchamp, a man he says he has no animosity toward.
During his time on the council, Gendron said he has focused on responsible government, public safety, economic growth, and improving quality of life across the city. He said he has also worked tirelessly to relocate and build a new water treatment plant to ensure Woonsocket’s long-term infrastructure needs are met and residents continue to receive reliable, high-quality services. He added that his campaign will center on bringing people together, strengthening communities, supporting local businesses, and ensuring city government remains accountable and responsive to residents.
Gendron also addressed the current challenges facing the city and explained why he believes this election represents a pivotal moment for Woonsocket’s future.
“Mayor Chris Beauchamp is a friend,” Gendron said. “However, we are at a point in our city’s history where I believe I am better qualified and better prepared for the work that needs to be done in 2026 and beyond.”
“It has now been a decade since Woonsocket exited the budget commission, yet I am deeply concerned that we may be heading backwards,” Gendron continued. “Cash reserves have been depleted, audits remain incomplete, staffing shortages persist across city departments, residents continue facing tax increases at the maximum levels allowed by law, and encampments throughout the city have been allowed to persist for far too long.”
He added, “While Mayor Beauchamp has been at the helm for nearly three years, I believe our city needs a new level of focus, urgency, and executive leadership to meet this moment.”
Gendron emphasized that his campaign will focus on competent leadership, accountability, and restoring confidence in city government.
“We need tough leadership grounded in competency, decency, and integrity,” he said. “I believe I have the experience, judgment, track record, and decisive leadership necessary to move Woonsocket forward and address the serious challenges facing our city.”
Gendron also emphasized the importance of the city’s workforce and the role municipal employees play in keeping Woonsocket moving forward.
“Our city employees are some of the most dedicated and hardworking people in public service,” he said. “From our police officers and firefighters to our teachers, public works employees, administrative staff, and every department that serves our residents each day, these individuals are the backbone of our city. As Mayor, I will value their service, support their efforts, and work collaboratively with them to continue building a stronger Woonsocket.”
“Woonsocket is a city filled with hardworking people who care deeply about their community and their future,” he added. “Together, we can restore confidence in city government, strengthen our city, support economic opportunity, and build a safer, stronger future for every family in Woonsocket.”
Additional campaign announcements and events will be shared in the coming weeks, according Gendron.
