Chicago’s mayoral election is expected to be tumultuous, with pollsters and meteorologists forecasting severe weather and possible tornadoes on election day. The city, which is the third largest in the US, has two Democrats with contrasting ideologies competing for the position. Brandon Johnson, a progressive who has previously advocated for the defunding of police, is facing off against Paul Vallas, who has secured the endorsement of the Chicago Police Union and has described himself as a Republican.
In the latest poll conducted on Monday evening, Vallas had the edge with 49.6% of the vote, while Johnson trailed behind with 45.4%. With only 5% of voters undecided, both candidates are working tirelessly to secure as many votes as possible before the election on Tuesday.
Johnson and Vallas emerged as the top contenders after a crowded mayoral primary in February. During that race, incumbent mayor Lori Lightfoot won the majority of the votes in Chicago’s Black wards on the South and West Sides, while Congressman Jesús “Chuy” García won Hispanic voters on the West Side. As Tuesday’s election approaches, both candidates are trying to appeal to Black and Hispanic residents by holding rallies at local churches and garnering support from Black and Hispanic politicians.
The upcoming election is being closely watched by Democrats across the country, as the outcome could have a significant impact on the party’s stance on public safety. The issue has taken center stage in the mayoral race, with Johnson supporting the defunding of the police movement and Vallas receiving the endorsement of the Chicago police union.
Despite a low voter turnout of 33% in the February primary, early voting in the current election is already surpassing the previous election. With the risk of severe weather and tornadoes, election officials are urging residents to vote early and avoid the storms. As the race heats up, both candidates are making their final pitches to voters, hoping to secure as many votes as possible.