Illinois Secretary Of State Alexi Giannoulias Enters Chicago Mayor’s Race - Block Club Chicago
Illinois Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias has officially announced his candidacy for the 2027 Chicago mayoral election. He joins a crowded field of candidates looking to succeed current Mayor Brandon Johnson.
Why it matters
The entry of a high-profile state official into the Chicago mayoral race signals a significant shift in the city's political landscape ahead of the 2027 election.
CHICAGO — Illinois Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias has made it official: he’s running for Chicago mayor.
Giannoulias made the long-expected announcement Sunday morning in a video posted on social media . He held a campaign launch event later in the day at the IBEW Local 134 union hall in Bronzeville.
The incumbent secretary of state joins an already-crowded field of candidates attempting to replace Mayor Brandon Johnson, who has not yet formally announced his reelection plans.
The 2027 mayoral election is Feb. 23. A runoff election will take place April 6 if no candidate garners at least 50 percent of the vote in the first round — a highly likely possibility with so many people expected to run.
Also in the race are outgoing Illinois Comptroller Susana Mendoza , North Side U.S. Rep. Mike Quigley , former Ald. George Cardenas and CHA board member Matt Brewer, among several others.
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