Geoffrey Epstein, an Australian-born former theoretical physics professor, is running for mayor of Framingham, Massachusetts, in a race that has drawn attention due to the shared name with disgraced financier Jeffrey Epstein. While the latter remains a focal point of legal and media scrutiny, Geoffrey Epstein is positioning himself as a candidate committed to education, infrastructure, and environmental action.
The Framingham mayoral hopeful, who once served on school committees in both Newton and Framingham, faces incumbent Mayor Charlie Sisitsky, who has significantly more campaign funds. Epstein’s campaign emphasizes initiatives such like expanding solar installations on school premises and prioritizing education in the city’s budget.
Critics have taken to social media to highlight the confusion, with one Reddit user asking, “Is this guy for real?” However, many locals are familiar with Geoffrey Epstein from his work with public schools, which has earned him some support.
Epstein, who goes by Geoff, has clarified the distinction between himself and Jeffrey Epstein, noting that the latter is a dead American while he is a living Australian. Despite the name confusion, Epstein remains focused on his campaign goals, which include tackling the city’s financial challenges and advocating for environmental action.
His campaign, according to his website, outlines specific solutions such as increasing the city’s budget for education and expanding renewable energy sources. However, the contest against Sisitsky is expected to be tough, given the funding disparity.
Epstein has received advice from Harvey Epstein, a New York state assemblymember who recently won a Democratic primary, suggesting that leading with values and personal credibility can help navigate the challenges of a controversial name.
Overall, Geoffrey Epstein’s campaign represents a blend of local concerns and broader national issues, as he navigates the complexities of running for mayor in a city that has long been a part of the Boston metropolitan area.