Story perspectives

Giannoulias Enters Chicago Mayoral Race as Frontrunner

By Drooid · Sep 14, 2026, 3:40 PM UTC · How we work

Summary

Story summary

Alexi Giannoulias, Illinois Secretary of State, announced his Chicago mayoral candidacy, entering as frontrunner with a $22 million fund.
Brandon Johnson, incumbent Chicago mayor, declared he will seek a second term in the 2027 election.
Willie Wilson, businessman, entered the race as a conservative independent candidate.
Susana Mendoza, Illinois Comptroller, resigned to run, aiming to become Chicago’s first Latina mayor.

History

Historical Context

February 1983 saw Harold Washington defeat incumbent Jane Byrne and Richard M. Daley in Chicago’s Democratic primary, mobilizing over 100,000 new voters and winning the April 12 general with 52% of the vote. His breakthrough as the city’s first Black mayor sparked intense fundraising and coalition politics that still shape races. The 2027 field, including Alexi Giannoulias and Brandon Johnson, mirrors that surge in diverse candidacies.

1 of 2

Story summary

Alexi Giannoulias, Illinois Secretary of State, announced his Chicago mayoral candidacy, entering as frontrunner with a $22 million fund.
Brandon Johnson, incumbent Chicago mayor, declared he will seek a second term in the 2027 election.
Willie Wilson, businessman, entered the race as a conservative independent candidate.
Susana Mendoza, Illinois Comptroller, resigned to run, aiming to become Chicago’s first Latina mayor.

1 / 2