Evanston Mayoral Race Intensifies with Entry of Incumbent City Clerk

The upcoming mayoral election in Evanston has gained momentum as Stephanie Mendoza, the city’s two-term city clerk, announced her candidacy. Mendoza, aged 33, aims to succeed Mayor Daniel Biss, who may transition to a congressional role after competing in the heavily Democratic Illinois 9th Congressional District race this November.

Expressing her dedication to Evanston, Mendoza stated in her announcement, “I am running for mayor because I believe in the power of Evanston. This community changed the course of my life. The people of Evanston invested in me, believed in my potential, and opened doors that made my future possible. I want to ensure every family has those same opportunities.”

Mendoza became city clerk in 2021 and was re-elected in 2025. She notably holds the title of the first Latina elected official in Evanston, and if victorious, would become the city’s first Latina mayor in the April 2027 election.

Mayor Daniel Biss plans to resign on October 18, facilitating a special election for his term’s remainder, ending in 2029. During the interim, an acting mayor will be selected from the nine current aldermen. If more than two candidates qualify, a primary election is scheduled for February 23.

In her present role, Mendoza manages key municipal duties as Evanston’s chief record keeper, oversees city code functions, and publishes official records. She also documents City Council meetings, handles public record requests, and acts as custodian of the City seal.

She has strived to ‘modernize City Hall’ by advancing records management policies, enhancing government transparency, reinstating Vital Records services, and supporting improved government operations. “As Mayor, I will be laser focused on making Evanston a place where everyone can afford to live and afford to stay,” she asserted in her campaign message.

Addressing the city’s persistent housing affordability issues, Mendoza emphasized the importance of expanding access to housing while protecting long-standing residents. Approximately 40% of Evanston households spend over a third of their income on housing. Rising costs contribute to increased economic and racial segregation. Initiatives like Housing4All aim to guide policy over the next decade.

She pledges to ensure high-quality city services, maintain a budget reflecting community values, and exercise fiscal responsibility. After her candidacy announcement, 47 volunteers have joined her campaign effort, indicating strong community support.

Illinois law requires mayoral candidates to collect between 946 and 1,513 signatures from registered voters for ballot qualification. Signature collection began on July 28, with the filing period ending October 26.

As city clerk, Mendoza usually oversees election processes, but must recuse herself due to her candidacy. A transition to mayor would mean a significant salary cut—from her current $81,000 to the mayoral salary of about $25,000.

Mendoza holds a political science degree from Loyola University Chicago, residing with her family in Evanston’s 2nd ward. “As a young mother, I came to Evanston determined to build a better future for my family,” she remarks, advocating leadership that understands diverse aspects of the city.

She is the fifth candidate in the mayoral race, joining former alderwoman Ann Rainey, attorney Jade Carpenter, Jeff Boarini, and activist Elliot Oats. The successful candidate will be sworn in at the first City Council meeting after election result certification, likely in early May 2027.