Ayanna Pressley has been making year-end phone calls to donors, setting off rumors of a long-awaited run. | Getty Pressley 'seriously considering' Capuano challenge

Boston City Councilor Ayanna Pressley is “seriously considering” challenging Rep. Mike Capuano in the Democratic primary next year, a source close to Pressley confirmed to POLITICO.

Pressley has been making year-end phone calls to donors, setting off rumors of a long-awaited run.


“One of the reasons why she feels comfortable considering this is because, for years, much of the donor class has made clear to her that, while they appreciate the work she’s doing on the Council, they feel she could be doing more at a higher level,” the source said, describing runs for higher office as a “recurring message she hears frequently.”

It’s not clear when Pressley would make a decision to officially enter the race, but the filing deadline for the Democratic primary is June 8. Pressley has not spoken to Capuano about a potential challenge for the 7th Congressional District, the source said. She also lives in the district.

Since her election, Pressley has enjoyed a high-profile tenure on the Boston City Council. She was the first woman of color elected to the body in 2009 and, in 2015, was recognized by EMILY’s List as a Rising Star for her role in state and local politics.

The source close to Pressley would not confirm if she commissioned a poll that went out Friday afternoon asking voters in Capuano’s district their thoughts on a matchup between the congressman and Pressley.

Another individual who received the poll told POLITICO that it included questions about Capuano and Pressley, the need for “fresh energy,” constituent services, and opinions about Democratic challenges against incumbent Democrats “even with good voting records.”