Tom McNamara (politician)

Thomas McNamara (born March 29, 1983) is an American politician serving as the 41st mayor of Rockford, Illinois since May 1, 2017. He previously served as an alderman of the Rockford's 3rd ward from 2013 to 2017.

McNamara is a graduate of John Carroll University and has professional experience in the nonprofit and insurance sectors. A member of the Democratic Party, he is the son of former Rockford mayor John McNamara and one of the youngest mayors in the city's history. He was first elected mayor in 2017, re-elected unopposed in 2021, and won a third term in 2025 with 78% of the vote.

During his tenure, McNamara has prioritized economic development, public safety, infrastructure investment, and neighborhood revitalization. Under his leadership, Rockford saw the expansion of Chicago Rockford International Airport, the development of Hard Rock Casino Rockford, and the implementation of multiple capital improvement programs. He also spearheaded the RE-GROW Grant Program to support minority-owned businesses and oversaw a significant reduction in the city's property tax rate.

McNamara’s administration has been noted for launching public health and housing initiatives during the COVID-19 pandemic, including expanded services for unhoused residents and financial relief for small businesses. He has also emphasized transparency, police reform, and domestic violence prevention through initiatives such as the Family Peace Center and the Mayor's Office on Domestic and Human Trafficking Prevention.