Mayor Brandon Johnson Launches Bid for Second Chicago Term

Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson announced his bid for a second term on Sunday during a rally at the DuSable Black History Museum and Education Center. Johnson is campaigning on a progressive platform that includes raising taxes on millionaires and billionaires, increasing the minimum wage, and expanding universal child care and mental health services. He framed the election as a choice between a working-class coalition and corporate interests, pledging to make Chicago the safest and most affordable big city in the United States.

Johnson faces steep political and financial challenges. A University of Chicago Mansueto Institute poll shows his approval rating at 23%, with reelection support between 13.6% and 14%. His campaign fund holds less than $1 million, while his primary opponent, Illinois Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias, possesses a $22 million war chest. Additionally, the Service Employees International Union is expected to withdraw its support following conflicts with the Chicago Teachers Union, though the latter remains a key ally.

The field has expanded to at least 12 candidates, including Illinois Comptroller Susana Mendoza, U.S. Representative Mike Quigley, and former Chicago Housing Authority CEO Matt Brewer. These challengers generally advocate for fiscal discipline and law-and-order policies. The first round of the election is scheduled for February 23, 2027, with a potential runoff on April 6. Candidates must submit 12,500 signatures by October 26 to secure a spot on the ballot.