Alexi Giannoulias Enters Chicago Mayoral Race

Illinois Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias officially entered the 2027 race for Chicago mayor Sunday, launching his campaign at the IBEW Local 134 headquarters in Bronzeville.

Giannoulias presented himself as a coalition builder who could bring Chicagoans together and make city government more effective. He said Chicago deserves leadership that is both competent and compassionate.

The 50-year-old Democrat enters the crowded contest with nearly $22 million in campaign funds and support from several trade unions and business leaders. That financial advantage immediately makes him one of the race’s most formidable candidates.

Giannoulias outlined proposals that include hiring 1,000 additional Chicago police officers by 2030 and restoring the city’s use of ShotSpotter. He also expressed support for a tax on millionaires, an idea Mayor Brandon Johnson has previously backed.

Giannoulias currently plans to seek reelection as Illinois secretary of state in November while campaigning for mayor. Johnson has not yet officially announced whether he will seek a second term.

With another major name joining the field, Chicago’s 2027 mayoral election is quickly becoming one of the city’s biggest political showdowns.

730 BOOM Radio will continue following the candidates, their proposals and what the race could mean for Chicago neighborhoods.