Overview
- The University of Chicago–commissioned NORC ChicagoSpeaks poll, fielded June 15–23 and reported July 15, found just 13.6% of likely voters want Mayor Brandon Johnson to run again and gave him a 23% job approval rating.
- The survey measured voter excitement as a turnout and momentum indicator and showed Illinois Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias at 52% excitement and Illinois Comptroller Susana Mendoza at 47%.
- Johnson has not declared whether he will seek re-election, leaving his plans uncertain as at least nine candidates have already entered the 2027 race and other potential challengers are being watched closely.
- Weak incumbent enthusiasm could shift donors, endorsements and volunteer energy toward front-runners, raise the odds of a contested vote, and make early coalition-building and petition drives more decisive.
- Voter concerns about public safety, housing affordability and city finances are driving the numbers and will shape how candidates craft messages and organize in the months before the municipal contest.