Chicago's Next Mayor? The Field is Strong, But Which Candidate Will Win Over Voters?
With Election Day set for February 23, 2027, the spotlight is shifting from the national stage to the Windy City. While the 2026 congressional midterm elections will dominate the national political landscape this year, Chicagoans are already gearing up for a spirited mayoral primary.
Mayor Brandon Johnson's dismal poll numbers and ongoing city problems have led many to speculate about his chances of an "one-and-done" term – similar to that of his predecessor, Lori Lightfoot. However, the conventional wisdom is being challenged by the emergence of a formidable field of candidates vying for the top spot.
Among the frontrunners are seasoned politicians with impressive track records in finance, policy-making, and governance. U.S. Representative Mike Quigley, Cook County Treasurer Maria Pappas, Illinois Comptroller Susana Mendoza, and Illinois Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias have all announced their intentions to run – although not officially yet.
Quigley, a workhorse with decades of experience in Illinois politics, is seen as a dark horse candidate. His ability to navigate complex policy terrains and work across ideological lines makes him an attractive option for voters seeking a pragmatic leader. Pappas, on the other hand, brings a unique combination of financial acumen and creativity to the table, having shone a light on property taxes in Cook County.
Mendoza's background in administrative reform and financial management has earned her respect from both parties, while Giannoulias' experience as treasurer and his connections to former President Barack Obama have helped him build a campaign war chest. Chicago Alderman Bill Conway, the youngest candidate in the field, is seen as a wildcard – with significant private sector savvy and recent public sector service.
As the mayoral field heats up, voters will face a tough decision: who will they support? Will it be the seasoned politicians with impressive track records or the newcomer with a fresh perspective and hefty campaign funds?
One thing is certain – this year's mayoral election promises to be one of the most interesting and substantive in recent memory. With no clear front-runner in sight, Chicagoans can expect a battle for the top spot that will leave them questioning who to vote for.
With Election Day set for February 23, 2027, the spotlight is shifting from the national stage to the Windy City. While the 2026 congressional midterm elections will dominate the national political landscape this year, Chicagoans are already gearing up for a spirited mayoral primary.
Mayor Brandon Johnson's dismal poll numbers and ongoing city problems have led many to speculate about his chances of an "one-and-done" term – similar to that of his predecessor, Lori Lightfoot. However, the conventional wisdom is being challenged by the emergence of a formidable field of candidates vying for the top spot.
Among the frontrunners are seasoned politicians with impressive track records in finance, policy-making, and governance. U.S. Representative Mike Quigley, Cook County Treasurer Maria Pappas, Illinois Comptroller Susana Mendoza, and Illinois Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias have all announced their intentions to run – although not officially yet.
Quigley, a workhorse with decades of experience in Illinois politics, is seen as a dark horse candidate. His ability to navigate complex policy terrains and work across ideological lines makes him an attractive option for voters seeking a pragmatic leader. Pappas, on the other hand, brings a unique combination of financial acumen and creativity to the table, having shone a light on property taxes in Cook County.
Mendoza's background in administrative reform and financial management has earned her respect from both parties, while Giannoulias' experience as treasurer and his connections to former President Barack Obama have helped him build a campaign war chest. Chicago Alderman Bill Conway, the youngest candidate in the field, is seen as a wildcard – with significant private sector savvy and recent public sector service.
As the mayoral field heats up, voters will face a tough decision: who will they support? Will it be the seasoned politicians with impressive track records or the newcomer with a fresh perspective and hefty campaign funds?
One thing is certain – this year's mayoral election promises to be one of the most interesting and substantive in recent memory. With no clear front-runner in sight, Chicagoans can expect a battle for the top spot that will leave them questioning who to vote for.
. It's gonna be sick to see who'll take over as mayor. But seriously, I think it's dope that there are so many talented folks throwing their hats into the ring. Quigley's experience is huge, but Pappas brings a unique vibe to the table too 
. Mendoza's got some serious admin cred, and Giannoulias has some big-time connections 
. Conway's the wild card – we'll see how that plays out. It's gonna be real interesting to watch this unfold 
i mean, we got people with actual experience, like quigley and mendoza... but then there's pappas, who brings this unique financial savvy 
and conway, who's all about that private sector life 
. but what really gets me is how much campaign funds giannoulias has, lol he's basically already bought the election 
. but at the same time, i think we need someone new around here... fresh perspective, you know? it'll be interesting to see how this all plays out in 2027 
especially with all these strong candidates vying for the spot 
I'm kinda hoping we get a newcomer who brings some fresh ideas and isn't too caught up in the old-school politics 
It's also making me think about how Chicago's problems are pretty deep-seated, so whoever wins is gonna have their work cut out for them 
Meanwhile, I'm sure Quigley's ability to navigate policy terrains is super exciting for most voters... who aren't exactly enthralled by politics, am I right? 
And let's not forget the wildcard – Conway, because age 30 is basically old in politician years 
Who knows, maybe this election will be less boring than watching paint dry... and that's saying something 
I'm thinking, you got these seasoned politicians like Quigley and Mendoza, they're solid players, but then you got Pappas bringing that financial magic 
. And let's be honest, it's not like we've seen a whole lot of leadership in this city lately 
.
Can't wait to see who comes out on top! 
but at the same time, maria pappas is bringing a unique perspective as treasurer and it'll be interesting to see how her financial expertise plays out in the mayor's office 
, but when you take a closer look, each candidate has some amazing skills and experiences to offer 
and Conway's fresh private sector perspective 
– that's something we could all use more of in our politics 
.
, but i guess some cities need an update lol. seriously tho, chicago's next mayor should focus on solving their public transportation issues and making the city more affordable for low-income fams. all these politicians talking about financial acumen and policy-making ain't gonna make a difference if they can't address the real problems 
, I mean what's next? 
! It's gonna be super interesting to see which candidate wins over voters and becomes the next mayor 
. Can't wait to see how everything unfolds on February 23rd! 
. Meanwhile, Maria Pappas' financial expertise is super attractive to voters who want to see some real action on property taxes 
. I think that'll make for an amazing election – voters will have to dig deep and figure out who aligns with their values most 
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. The fact that we've got a mix of seasoned politicians and newcomers with unique skills is exactly what Chicago needs right now. I mean, who wouldn't want to see some fresh perspectives in City Hall? 