Chicago Mayor Johnson Faces 53% Disapproval as Giannoulias Leads 2027 Race

Key points

• NORC/Mansueto poll finds 53% of Chicagoans disapprove of Johnson, with only 22% approving.
• Alexi Giannoulias leads likely voters at 25%, followed by Johnson at 14% and Susana Mendoza at 9.5%.
• 55% of likely voters are not excited about Johnson’s candidacy, compared to 59% excited about Giannoulias.
• Johnson skipped the Monday petition filing, allowing Willie Wilson to secure the top ballot position.
• 34% of likely voters remain undecided, indicating a fluid race with significant room for change.

Background

Johnson’s approval has remained below 30% since the second quarter of 2025, with disapproval consistently above 50%. His first term has been marked by controversy, including legislative gridlock and backlash over campaign rhetoric and viral videos. The 2027 race features a crowded field, with candidates filing petitions to appear on the Feb. 23 ballot. Johnson’s strategy has included leveraging social media influencers to bypass traditional media, though this approach has drawn criticism for lacking accountability.

How outlets are covering it

The Chicago Tribune and WTTW News both highlight Johnson’s low approval and Giannoulias’s lead, but WTTW emphasizes the logistical aspect of petition filing, noting Johnson’s absence from the Monday event. Wirepoints, a conservative outlet, frames the low approval as a reflection of broader dissatisfaction with Democratic governance, though it lacks specific polling data. The Tribune notes Johnson’s blame on big-business interests, while WTTW focuses on campaign funding disparities, with Giannoulias raising over $19 million compared to no other candidate topping $3 million.

Why it matters

The poll results signal a significant challenge for Johnson’s reelection bid, with a large undecided voter pool and strong opposition from well-funded candidates like Giannoulias. The race’s outcome could reshape Chicago’s political landscape, influencing policy on urban development, public safety, and fiscal management. The high level of undecided voters suggests that campaign strategies, including influencer marketing and traditional outreach, will be critical in the coming months.

What to watch

Candidates have until Oct. 26 to file petitions, with objections due by Nov. 2 and the ballot certified by Dec. 17. Mail-in ballots and early voting begin Jan. 14, with the election on Feb. 23. A runoff may occur on April 6 if no candidate secures 50% plus one vote. The new mayor’s term begins May 17.