Alexi Giannoulias Leads Chicago Mayoral Race

Illinois Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias officially entered the Chicago mayoral contest on August 2, announcing a campaign funded with more than $22 million. He positioned his record as a state treasurer and promised to hire 1,000 additional police officers and restore gun‑shot detection technology.

A University of Chicago poll shows Giannoulias ahead with 52 % of voters supporting his candidacy, followed by Comptroller Susana Mendoza at 47 %. Incumbent Mayor Brandon Johnson trails far behind, with only 14 % of respondents wanting him to run again. The race features a crowded field that also includes Congressman Mike Quigley, former Chicago Housing Authority chief Matt Brewer, and several business candidates.

Giannoulias has criticized the current administration’s budget practices and public‑safety policies, while pledging to address crime, housing affordability, and economic recovery for the city’s residents.