Matt O'Malley throws his hat in the ring for District 6

The former MassEquality political director is running for City Council.

Matt O'Malley, the former political director of MassEquality, announced July 6 that he is running for City Council in Boston's sixth district following the announcement that City Councilor John Tobin will be stepping down after nine years in the position.

"It's something I've always wanted to do," O'Malley said. "I've run for Councilor At-Large in the past and didn't win, but always had a nice showing." O'Malley has already been endorsed by Sheriff Andrea Cabrall and City Councilor At-Large John Connolly.

The candidate said that, although not gay himself, he's always been a "stalwart supporter" of the LGBT community, and plans to continue his involvement if elected. "I was a member of the Gay-Straight Alliance when I was in high school; I had the dubious honor of being the first straight Political Director of MassEquality, and it was just a great opportunity," he said. "I think that the LGBT civil rights movement is the civil rights movement of my generation."

While MassEquality does not offer endorsements to candidates for City Council, Interim Executive Director Paula Herrington said that the organization is appreciative of O'Malley's hard work. "We think he's terrific," she said. "He did great work here and we wish him the best of luck."

O'Malley said that he believes his history of working with the LGBT community will contribute to his work as City Councilor. "It was just a great experience and one that I really think has prepared me well to serve this district," he said. "I've made a career of bringing people together. I was the white campaign manager of the first person of color [Andrea Cabrall] elected sheriff in Suffolk County. On the heels of that, I was the first straight guy running the political department and a lot of the field aspects with my colleagues at MassEquality. I think you need someone who can really represent all communities."

O'Malley, the field director for Steve Grossman's campaign for Massachusetts state treasurer, said that the issues upon which he will focus as City Councilor include public education, public safety, environmental issues, and property taxes.

Ryan Brown, MassEquality's Manager of Field Operations, remembered working directly with O'Malley to secure marriage equality in New Hampshire, Vermont, and Maine. "Matt was here heading up the political and fieldwork during that time and he had a very strong role in the Vermont and New Hampshire and Maine races," Brown said. "Given his experience both here at MassEquality and at other political worlds, he's always been a strong supporter for LGBT equality.

"When he ran for City Council when he was in his early 20's, I believe he actually came out in support of marriage equality then, even though of course he didn't have to as a City Councilor. He has always been a vocal supporter and champion for LGBT equality in Massachusetts."

Tobin will assume his new position as Northeastern University's Vice President of City and Community Affairs in August of this year.

"I'm thrilled to be joining the leadership of a great university that is deeply connected to Boston and our neighborhoods," Tobin said in a statement. "I have loved every minute of being a city councilor and representing the people of my district."

David Isberg, John Tobin's chief of staff, told Wicked Local Roslindale that he is "seriously considering running" for the soon-to-be vacant councilor seat, pending discussions with his family and measuring voter feedback. "I would love to run, but I would have to sit down and see what people have to say," he said.