Candidates Gear Up for the 2027 Chicago Mayoral Election
The upcoming Chicago mayoral election is set for February 23, 2027. As of now, nine candidates have officially announced their campaigns, with more expected to join the race in the coming months. The current contenders include both experienced politicians and fresh faces in Chicago’s political scene. Mayor Brandon Johnson, currently in his first term, has not yet announced a bid for reelection.
The process for candidates to begin collecting nominating petitions starts on July 28. The number of candidates may increase, but some might not make it past the initial stage if they fail to gather the required 12,500 signatures, a task complicated by the competitive petition-challenging process. In the event that no candidate secures more than 50% of the vote on February 23, a runoff election between the top two candidates will occur on April 6, 2027, with the inauguration planned for May.
Who’s Running
Willie Wilson: South Side businessman Willie Wilson is running for the fourth time. Known for his philanthropy and becoming one of the first Black McDonald’s franchise owners, Wilson plans to run on conservative positions aimed at reforming City Hall. He emphasizes the need for independent and honest leadership.
Alexi Giannoulias: Illinois Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias recently announced his candidacy, ending months of speculation. Entering with strong name recognition and financial backing, Giannoulias has built a campaign supported by trade unions and various city council members. His significant campaign funds exceed $22 million, contrasting with Mayor Brandon Johnson’s progressive policies.
Matthew Brewer: Former interim CEO of the Chicago Housing Authority, Brewer has announced his candidacy. Highlighting his experience in government and business, Brewer seeks to address governance issues at City Hall. His background includes roles at prestigious law firms and co-owning a well-known Chicago hot dog stand.
George Cardenas: A former Alderman and now Cook County Board of Review Commissioner, George Cardenas aims to apply his experience in City Hall to the mayor’s office. He offers a suite of policy proposals, focusing on efficiency without further budget cuts.
Mike Quigley: U.S. Representative Mike Quigley, whose political career began in 2009, has joined the race. Quigley, representing districts covering North Side neighborhoods and West Cook County suburbs, critiques Johnson’s economic plans and argues for fiscal responsibility from City Hall.
Susana Mendoza: Comptroller Susana Mendoza is entering the mayoral race, foregoing a reelection campaign for her current position. Mendoza, positioned as a centrist option, has history serving as Chicago city clerk and a state representative, and aims to become the city’s first Latina mayor.
Liam Stanton: A political newcomer and tech entrepreneur, Stanton has founded several startups. He runs on a platform advocating term limits for elected officials in Chicago.
Joe Holberg: An entrepreneur and former math teacher, Holberg was the first to declare his candidacy. He positions himself as a political outsider with a history of overcoming personal challenges.
John Kelly: A seasoned lobbyist, Kelly represents Bally’s, the company awarded Chicago’s casino contract. He joins the race with extensive experience in political consultancy.
Lisa Nee: Cardiologist and whistleblower Lisa Nee is also running as a political outsider. She gained recognition for her role in exposing malpractices at a veterans’ hospital, leading to her testimony at a U.S. Senate hearing.
Undecided Candidates
Brandon Johnson: Mayor Brandon Johnson remains uncommitted about running for a second term. His tenure sees him defending his achievements, like reducing gun violence and reopening mental health clinics, against critiques from various political quarters. His campaign benefited from support by activist groups and unions.
Maria Pappas: Cook County Treasurer Maria Pappas, known for her dynamic personality, might enter the race but has yet to make an official announcement. Her management of property tax reforms faces scrutiny amidst technical issues, which could influence voters’ perceptions.