Joseph P. Ganim

Joseph Peter Ganim (born October 21, 1959) is an American Democratic politician and former attorney serving as Mayor of Bridgeport, Connecticut. He is currently in his eighth term as mayor, having first held the office across five consecutive terms from 1991 to 2003, before resigning following a conviction on federal felony corruption charges. In 2015, Ganim mounted a successful political comeback, winning re-election to the mayoralty, and has since been re-elected multiple times, most recently securing another four-year term in February 2024 after defeating John Gomes. He was officially sworn in for his eighth term in May 2024.

Since returning to office in 2015, Ganim has focused on fiscal management, overseeing budget surpluses in every fiscal year and an improvement in the city's bond rating. His administration has pursued economic development, including over one billion dollars in private investment through completed and ongoing projects. Notable initiatives include the construction of a $35 million outdoor amphitheater, the Harbor Yard Amphitheater, and the development of Bridgeport's waterfront at Steelepointe Harbor, which includes a marina, housing, retail, and hotel facilities. The city has also directed American Rescue Plan funds toward local business support, youth and educational programs, housing security, healthcare, and workforce development.

Additional priorities under Ganim's leadership have included reducing the city's mill rate, addressing blight and illegal dumping, expanding street paving, and advancing environmental sustainability initiatives. Beautification efforts have included planting 10,000 trees and over 250,000 flower bulbs in public spaces throughout the city. Ganim has also attracted companies focused on battery development to establish facilities in Bridgeport as part of a broader sustainability agenda.