So, Who’s Running For Mayor?

Chicago’s mayoral election is Feb. 23, 2027 — if no candidate gets a majority of the vote, a runoff will take place April 6.

That might feel far-off, but the race has already begun! Candidates are announcing, and money is pouring in — here’s where the race stands so far.

Who’s Announced

Illinois Comptroller Susana Mendoza has been the state’s chief fiscal manager since 2016. Though she ran unsuccessfully for mayor in 2019, this campaign feels more focused. She’s not seeking another term as comptroller and she's using social media to amplify (or soften?) her image.

• Her platform: A centrist Democrat, Mendoza is pro-police and has said that Chicago is facing public safety and financial crises.

U.S. Rep. Mike Quigley (5th) is running while serving his ninth term in Congress. Unlike Mendoza, Quigley is up for reelection in the general this fall.

• For now: His platform seems focused on addressing the city’s $1 billion-plus deficit.

Cook County Board of Review Commissioner George Cardenas officially launched his campaign last week. And so far, his platform seems relatively moderate — and a little vague. Previously, Cardenas spent nearly 20 years as 12th Ward alder, serving as an ally to former Mayors Lori Lightfoot, Rahm Emanuel, and Richard M. Daley.

Chicago Housing Authority board member Matthew Brewer slammed Johnson while announcing his candidacy. The two have a contentious history regarding leadership within CHA.

Also in the race: Businessmen Liam Stanton and Joe Holberg.

Who’s Likely to Announce

Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias recently benefited from $255,000 from a local union for his November reelection race … but Giannoulias doesn’t need big contributions to trounce a little-known Republican challenger. Seemingly, Giannoulias is shaping up to run for mayor.

• Could he win? Giannoulias is generally considered to have improved office (and line) conditions … but in 2010, the collapse of his family's bank cost him the U.S. Senate election. Giannoulias lost to Republican Mark Kirk.

Cook County Treasurer Maria Pappas is seeking reelection for her current role in November, though she’s previously said she will run for mayor.

• Recognize her? Pappas has served as treasurer since 1998 and recently published a damning report detailing how property taxes have skyrocketed … but she’s perhaps best known for her spunky look.

Mayor Brandon Johnson has not formally announced his reelection campaign, though it seems likely. Then again, Johnson’s progressive coalition is fraying. Unlike past mayors, Johnson does not maintain a rubber-stamp majority in City Council.

Other maybes:

• Ald. Bill Conway (34th), the son of a billionaire, is bringing in lots of donations that far outpace a local ward race.
• Ald. Andre Vasquez (40th) recently revived his rap career — perhaps for mayoral publicity?
• Businessman Willie Wilson hasn’t ruled out running. Again.
• Former candidate Paul Vallas technically could run again — but for now, he’s still dealing with debt and ethics fines from his previous campaign.