The 2019 Chicago mayoral election was one of the most closely watched and heavily contested local elections in recent memory. The race drew a field of more than a dozen candidates, including seasoned politicians, community activists, and business leaders, each vying for the chance to become the next mayor of one of the nation's largest cities.



The election was called after incumbent Mayor Rahm Emanuel announced in September 2018 that he would not seek re-election, citing a desire to spend more time with his family. Emanuel had served as Chicago's mayor since 2011 and had overseen a number of major initiatives during his tenure, including the expansion of the city's public transportation system, the implementation of a controversial new school funding formula, and a major push to attract new businesses to the city.

With Emanuel out of the race, the field was wide open, and candidates from across the political spectrum threw their hats into the ring. Among the early frontrunners were Toni Preckwinkle, the president of the Cook County Board of Commissioners and a longtime fixture in Chicago politics, and Lori Lightfoot, a former federal prosecutor and corporate attorney who had never before held elected office.

Preckwinkle was seen as a seasoned political insider with deep ties to the city's African-American community, while Lightfoot presented herself as a fresh face with a focus on reform and transparency. Other candidates in the race included Bill Daley, a former White House chief of staff and scion of the city's legendary Daley political dynasty, and Susana Mendoza, the city's comptroller and a former member of the Illinois House of Representatives.

The race quickly became a battle of personalities and ideologies, with candidates staking out positions on issues ranging from public safety and education to economic development and immigration. Lightfoot, in particular, emerged as a strong advocate for police reform and accountability, positioning herself as a progressive alternative to the more centrist Preckwinkle and Daley.

As the campaign wore on, the race grew increasingly contentious, with candidates trading barbs and accusations on the campaign trail and in debates. Lightfoot faced accusations of flip-flopping on key issues, while Preckwinkle was criticized for her ties to the Democratic machine that had long dominated Chicago politics.



Ultimately, however, it was Lightfoot who emerged victorious, winning more than 74% of the vote in the runoff election against Preckwinkle. Her victory was seen as a stunning upset and a validation of her campaign's message of change and reform.

Since taking office, Lightfoot has faced a number of challenges, including a major teachers' strike and ongoing concerns over crime and public safety. She has also been forced to grapple with the COVID-19 pandemic and its impact on the city's economy and public health.

Despite these challenges, however, Lightfoot has remained a popular and respected leader, with a strong base of support both within the city and beyond. Her election marked a turning point in Chicago politics, signaling a new era of progressive leadership and a rejection of the city's old guard. As Chicago continues to face new challenges and opportunities, all eyes will be on Lightfoot and her administration to see how they respond and shape the city's future.