Josh Kraft: Financial Transparency in his Mayoral Campaign
In a recent interview, Josh Kraft, son of billionaire and Patriots owner Robert Kraft, discussed the sources of his recent income. “Maybe I will, maybe I won’t,” Kraft stated when asked about full financial transparency, adding, “I have disclosed more than the legal requirement for any candidate.”
Kraft’s Earnings and Campaign Finances
When questioned about his recent $6.3 million earnings, Kraft confirmed it came from his family business. Amidst a competitive mayoral race against Mayor Michelle Wu, Kraft’s transparency about his personal financial situation has been criticized. He has already invested $2 million from his personal wealth into his campaign, with expectations of further contributions, as financing becomes a prominent topic in the election. Kraft declared that he would distance himself from any conflicts of interest involving his family business, if elected.
Kraft’s Charitable Work and Previous Earnings
Kraft was formerly the head of the New England Patriot Charitable Foundation, where he did not draw a salary, according to public 990 reports. However, a campaign spokesperson stated that he was paid a salary by the Kraft Group for his work at the foundation. The dollar amount was not disclosed. Additionally, Kraft was the longtime head of the Boys and Girls Club of Boston, earning nearly $350,000 in fiscal year 2020 before stepping down in December of that year, as shown by public records.
Kraft’s Tax Returns and Political Transparency
While many politicians, such as Senator Elizabeth Warren, release their tax returns yearly, Kraft has only released two-page summaries of his 2023 and 2024 taxes. These documents reveal that Kraft earned $6.3 million last year, but do not specify the income sources. A spokesperson confirmed that this income included salary, interest, dividends, and capital gains. Lack of tax return transparency is not exclusive to any political party, and has sparked national controversies in the past, notably with President Trump’s refusal to release his tax returns.
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