Overview
- Outgoing Mayor Erin Stewart is not seeking reelection after six terms and has launched an exploratory bid for governor.
- The ballot features Republican Alderwoman Sharon Beloin-Saavedra, Democratic state Rep. Bobby Sanchez, and petitioning candidates Tarsha Renee Moore and Alfred P. Mayo.
- Taxes and rising utility costs are top concerns for residents, with Beloin-Saavedra promoting a tax-cut plan and Sanchez urging restraint on further increases.
- Public safety plans diverge, as Beloin-Saavedra supports speed and red-light cameras while Sanchez prioritizes community policing with foot patrols and neighborhood watches.
- Education proposals split, with Sanchez backing a new high school and expanded early learning and Beloin-Saavedra emphasizing renovations and after-school programs in a district ranked near the bottom statewide.