For the past three years, Michelle Wu, mayor of Boston, has faced sustained criticism from an anonymous online account known as @AntiWuCoalition on Twitter, which later transitioned to the platform X. The account frequently targeted Wu with harsh commentary and called for her resignation following the announcement of her third pregnancy. The individual behind these attacks has now been identified as Simon Pacheco, a 36-year-old software engineer based in Boston.
Pacheco, who previously lived in Florida, confirmed his role as the operator of Mass Daily News, a right-leaning website that largely relies on artificial intelligence to generate its content. The site has garnered tens of thousands of followers on social media and has played an influential role in shaping public discourse around Boston city government and Massachusetts state politics. Despite widespread speculation over the years, Pacheco’s identity remained unknown until recently, after cross-referencing public records linked the website’s parent company to him.
In interviews, Pacheco described Mass Daily News as filling a perceived void for a more “populist, right-of-center” media presence in Massachusetts. He stated that he recognized an opportunity to expand beyond social media commentary into a more structured news platform. Pacheco emphasized that he operates the site independently, without any staff, crafting its content in a manner that sharply contrasts with his personal demeanor. Those who have met him report a polite and relaxed personality, which contrasts with the often acerbic tone of the website’s output.
Identifying as Latino and a first-generation American of Colombian descent, Pacheco has cast votes for both Republican and Democratic presidential candidates over the years. He does not position himself as a strict ideological partisan but rather as someone intent on provoking conversation and challenging established narratives within Massachusetts politics.
The emergence of Pacheco’s identity sheds light on the growing influence of AI-driven media operations in local political discourse, highlighting how individuals can leverage technology to generate viral content with significant reach and impact. As digital platforms continue to evolve, the case of Mass Daily News raises questions about transparency, accountability, and the role of new media in shaping public opinion at the municipal and state levels.