Carlo DeMaria Jr.

Carlo DeMaria Jr. is an American politician who has served as the mayor of Everett, Massachusetts since 2007. A member of the Democratic Party, his lengthy tenure has been marked by significant urban redevelopment initiatives and persistent political controversies. His administration has overseen transformative projects in the city while simultaneously facing federal investigations and ethical scrutiny.

Early life and education

Carlo DeMaria Jr. was born and raised in Everett, Massachusetts, a historically industrial city located just north of Boston. He is a lifelong resident of the community, which has deeply influenced his political career. For his higher education, he attended the University of Massachusetts Boston, where he earned a degree in political science. His early professional life involved work in the real estate and insurance sectors, experiences that later informed his approach to municipal development and economic policy.

Political career

DeMaria's political career began on the Everett Common Council, where he served for several years, gaining familiarity with local governance. He was first elected mayor in a 2007 special election following the resignation of then-mayor John R. Hanlon. DeMaria won the election by a narrow margin, defeating City Council President Peter A. Napolitano. Since that initial victory, he has been re-elected multiple times, often by substantial margins, solidifying his control over the city's political apparatus. His long incumbency has made him one of the most enduring mayors in the history of Middlesex County, Massachusetts.

Mayor of Everett

As mayor, DeMaria has presided over a period of dramatic change in Everett, championing large-scale development projects. A central achievement of his administration was facilitating the construction of the Encore Boston Harbor casino and resort, a major project by Wynn Resorts that has significantly altered the city's economic landscape and tax base. His tenure has also focused on revitalizing the Everett waterfront, attracting commercial and residential investment, and improving public infrastructure. He has worked closely with state agencies like the Massachusetts Department of Transportation and federal representatives, including former Congressman Michael E. Capuano.

Controversies

DeMaria's administration has been consistently shadowed by legal and ethical controversies. In 2022, his home and City Hall were raided by the Federal Bureau of Investigation as part of a wide-ranging probe into potential corruption, though no charges were filed against him. His political tactics have frequently drawn criticism, including allegations of nepotism and using city resources for political purposes. His close association with developers and the casino industry has also fueled ongoing scrutiny from good government groups like Common Cause Massachusetts and local media outlets such as The Boston Globe.

Personal life

DeMaria maintains a strong connection to Everett, where he continues to reside. He is married and has children who have been involved in local community activities. He is known to be an active member of various local organizations, including longstanding institutions like the Everett Chamber of Commerce and the Knights of Columbus. His personal and political identity remains deeply intertwined with the city he governs.

Category:Mayors of places in Massachusetts Category:American city mayors Category:21st-century American politicians