Chicago’s next mayoral election is less than a year away and the list of candidates — and those considering a run — is growing ever larger. Petitions for a spot on the ballot will start circulating July 28 and are due in late October.
Here is a breakdown of who’s running and who may still enter the race ahead of the Feb. 23, 2027, election. The Incumbent:
Brandon Johnson: Chicago’s current mayor has long spoken about his plans to serve multiple terms in office, but Johnson has not yet formally announced his plans to run for reelection. The Current Field:
Susana Mendoza: The Illinois state comptroller is a former state legislator and Chicago city clerk. She threw her hat into the ring to become the city’s next mayor on June 3. If elected, she said she would curb City Hall spending, rebuild trust between residents and police and ensure a safe, clean and reliable CTA transit system. Mike Quigley: The U.S. representative for Illinois’ 5th District, who has long considered running for mayor, officially kicked off his campaign with a speech June 27 at the Uptown Theatre. He has pledged to tackle Chicago’s budget issues and provide strong schools in every community, expanded mental health services and an abundant supply of housing. George Cardenas: The longtime 12th Ward alderperson and Cook County Board of Review commissioner announced his plans to run for mayor June 17, promising to fix the city’s fiscal and public safety issues. Matt Brewer: The former Chicago Housing Authority board chair, whom Johnson sought to oust earlier this year, entered the race June 25. Brewer remains a board member on the Housing Authority and co-owns both the Wiener’s Circle and the city’s first independent, Black-owned marijuana dispensary. Jay Holberg: The founder and CEO of Spring, Holberg became the first candidate to officially enter the 2027 race when he kicked off his campaign last fall. Holberg said he will prioritize growing Chicago’s economy, eliminating debt and expanding housing options. Liam Stanton: The founder and principal of June Capital is running on what he has called a “Hit the Gas” platform that prioritizes accelerating Chicago growth, lowering the cost of living and modernizing Chicago police deployments and community partnerships.
The Potential Candidates: Alexi Giannoulias: Illinois secretary of state.
Maria Pappas: Cook County treasurer.
Lisa Nee: Healthcare and public policy advisor. Willie Wilson: Chicago businessman.
