Chicago is more than six months away from choosing its next mayor, but seven candidates have already announced campaigns. Anyone hoping to get on the ballot can begin circulating petitions next week.

Chicagoans have months before casting ballots for the city’s next mayor, but the competition is heating up with seven candidates vying for the top spot. Entrepreneur Joe Holberg was the first to enter the race.

The South Side native is not a career politician but comes with a diverse resume. He’s a co-owner of the iconic Wiener’s Circle and co-owns the city’s first Black-owned marijuana dispensary alongside his brother and mom.

Nee began her career as a nurse, and later became an interventional cardiologist, treating complex and high-risk heart conditions, according to a biography. While working at Hines VA Hospital, Nee spoke out about failures in patient care that put veterans at risk.

Northwest Side congressman Mike Quigley is officially running for Chicago mayor. The nine-term U.S. representative from Illinois’ 5th District launched his campaign at the historic Uptown Theatre.

The announcement comes just months after Mayor Brandon Johnon moved to oust Brewer when he served as chair of the Chicago Housing Authority.

The former alderperson and current Cook County Board of Review commissioner kicked off his campaign during a lunch event on Chicago’s Southwest Side Tuesday at which he pledged to tackle the city’s fiscal and public safety issues.

“I believe government should answer to the people it serves, not political insiders or special interests,” Mendoza said in a video announcing her campaign. “Because Chicagoans are tired of paying more and getting less, tired of politics that divides people without solving problems.”