Setti Warren, first Black mayor of Massachusetts, dies at 55 after leading Harvard’s Institute of Politics.

Setti Warren, director of Harvard’s Institute of Politics and former mayor of Newton, Massachusetts, has died at 55. A trailblazer as the first African American popularly elected mayor in Massachusetts, Warren led the IOP with a focus on ideological diversity, expanding programs and hosting figures from across the political spectrum. He previously served in the Navy Reserve, worked in multiple White House roles, and ran for governor in 2017 before withdrawing due to funding issues. Known for his commitment to public service and nonpartisan dialogue, Warren is remembered as a visionary leader and dedicated mentor. The cause of death has not been disclosed.