Why I’m running for Philadelphia City Controller

by Ari Patrinos
Posted 3/27/25

In a move influenced by neighbors, family and friends in Northwest Philadelphia, I have decided to run for Philadelphia city controller. Born and raised in Northwest Philly's leafy-green streets, I credit these neighborhoods for shaping my values and vision for the city.

As a graduate of Philadelphia's Central High School, I went on to earn a bachelor's degree in social science from Harvard University and a master's degree in political science from the University of Chicago. I then launched a successful career in New York's financial sector, passing the Series 7 and 63 examinations and two …

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Why I’m running for Philadelphia City Controller

Posted

In a move influenced by neighbors, family and friends in Northwest Philadelphia, I have decided to run for Philadelphia city controller. Born and raised in Northwest Philly's leafy-green streets, I credit these neighborhoods for shaping my values and vision for the city.

As a graduate of Philadelphia's Central High School, I went on to earn a bachelor's degree in social science from Harvard University and a master's degree in political science from the University of Chicago. I then launched a successful career in New York's financial sector, passing the Series 7 and 63 examinations and two actuarial exams in probability and financial mathematics.

Still, I never forgot my roots. From washing dishes in Chestnut Hill to working as a Quaker camp counselor and cleaning gutters across Philadelphia, I developed a strong sense of commitment to my hometown. That commitment guided me back to Philadelphia, where I taught mathematics and history in local charter and public schools, striving to provide the same educational opportunities that propelled my own success.

My civic engagement started by writing articles for national outlets like The Federalist and local publications such as the Chestnut Hill Local. More recently, I've been frustrated by the increasing failure of the city of Philadelphia to effectively provide basic services, such as clean, safe streets, and the high-quality of academic skills necessary for all public school graduates.

Can the taxpayer's money be used more effectively? I certainly think so. I'm running for city controller because I believe we can — and must — do better. There are a ton of talented and highly skilled people in this city. The real question is whether the city has the right leadership to enable these people to be the best version of themselves. Despite being the highest-taxed city in the nation, I think I speak for all of us when I say that we just aren't getting our money's worth to enable our own residents to succeed.

For more information, visit patrinos4controller.com or email ari@patrinos4controller.com.