With Mayor Brandon Johnson’s popularity struggling, it sets the stage for a competitive race for the 2027 election, as several potential challengers emerge. Currently, only three candidates have officially committed: Mike Quigley, Maria Pappas, and Joe Holberg. However, interest is growing, and key players are likely to throw their hats into the ring.
Alexi Giannoulias, who has yet to announce his candidacy, is already making waves with his impressive fundraising, amassing $1 million each quarter as Illinois Secretary of State. His strong ties with influential progressives, business experience, and a solid track record in office position him as a leading contender if he decides to run. Political insiders describe him as the “complete package,” indicating his potential appeal to a broad voter base and his favorable view among labor groups.
Congressman Mike Quigley, despite being a decade older since the last election cycle, is gearing up to officially announce his campaign after the March congressional primary. Quigley’s moderate-progressive stance, along with a willingness to criticize the current mayor’s fiscal strategies, positions him well. His Congressional experience provides him with the opportunity to appeal to a wider demographic, though he will face the challenge of building relationships with communities outside his North Side stronghold.
Susana Mendoza, the current Illinois Comptroller, has made strides in eliminating the state’s backlog of unpaid bills, an achievement that could resonate with voters concerned about financial management. Mendoza has not hesitated to criticize Johnson’s policies, potentially positioning her as a fiscally responsible alternative. However, her lack of strong connections within the Latino community may hinder her campaign’s momentum.
Brandon Johnson, while facing significant challenges, still holds the office of mayor and the advantages of incumbency. His approval ratings have ticked up, but overcoming persistent low popularity and opposition from a divided City Council will be challenging. His base primarily consists of Black voters and progressive supporters, a demographic that may not be sufficient for a runoff victory.
Maria Pappas and Bill Conway also enter the race as notable candidates. Pappas, known for her unique public persona as Cook County Treasurer, recent polling showed her with a significant lead over Johnson. However, her age and quirky campaign style may raise questions about her viability. Meanwhile, Conway, coming from a wealthy family and possessing a media-friendly image, could attract business support, though historical trends show that aldermen have struggled to win the mayoralty.
Willie Wilson remains a perennial candidate who could siphon votes away from Johnson with his grassroots initiatives. John Kelly Jr., a lobbyist considering a run, faces potential skepticism from voters due to his profession and background. Finally, Joe Holberg, who lacks political experience and recognition, is unlikely to pose a significant challenge to the more established figures in the race.
As the election approaches, Chicagoans can expect a busy political landscape, with both seasoned politicians and newcomers aiming to shape the future of the city. The outcome will largely depend on the candidates’ ability to connect with voters’ pressing concerns and their overall vision for Chicago.