Margi Daly officially announces her candidacy for mayor of Madison

MADISON – Margi Daly, who has lived in the city for 21 years, has announced her candidacy for Mayor of the City of Madison.

Daly’s campaign platform emphasizes the implementation of transparency, fiscal responsibility, proactive infrastructure development and a community-centric City Hall. She believes that she can restore community engagement by applying the expertise of City Hall’s staff.

“As the founder and leader of MCWatchdogs, Ms. Daly has dedicated herself to educating the community about the potential for authoritarianism within the City Manager’s role,” Matthew Agnello said. Agnello is serving as press secretary for Daly’s campaign.

“Ms. Daly seeks to serve as mayor and collaborate with the community to elevate our city, prioritizing the well-being of its citizens,” Agnello said.

Daly’s campaign slogan is “Grassroots taking Madison back,” as stated on her Facebook page.

She and her husband Matthew are both retired. Matthew worked in the coffee industry. Margi pursued a career in the medical field. “I also worked in restaurants from the age of 12, including roles as cashier, wait staff, manager and accountant,” she said.

“I was elected as a City/County Commissioner three times in New Jersey,” Daly said. “I was also appointed to the ABC Commission (New Jersey Division of Alcoholic Beverage Control), where I oversaw 525 liquor licenses for Jersey City, N.J.”

“These experiences will aid me in running the city,” she said. Daly compiled 12 years of service as an elected official in New Jersey.

“I watched Jersey City raise our debt much like this current Madison council, giving tax relief to the developers and creating thousands of rental units,” Daly said about her motivation to run.

Daly first stated her campaign decision while speaking during public comments at Madison City Council’s March 10 meeting.

Currently, Ranae Bartlett also has entered the mayoral race; Bartlett has represented District 5 constituents on Madison City Council. The current mayor, Paul Finley, indicated in October 2024 that he would not run again for the office.

On June 10, residents can file to run for the offices of Mayor or City Council representative. The Madison municipal election will be held on Aug. 26.