Chicago Ald. Sophia King (4th Ward) has officially entered the Chicago mayoral race.
"I love this city. We need a Chicago that's safer AND stronger," King says in the video, according to NBC Chicago. "Let's put an end to the false choices because we can have safety and justice. Compassion and accountability. We can revitalize neighborhoods and renew downtown. We can educate our young people. We can build our city and build equity."
According to her official biography, King grew up in Evanston. Later, through her work at the Latin School of Chicago, she help founded the Ariel Community Academywith the goal of providing North Kenwood-Oakland residents with the same quality education that her students at Latin received. In addition, King utilized her master's degree in education and social policy from Northwestern University to diversify classes at the Latin School and promote co-curricular education at Chicago Public Schools.
King, a former small-business owner, has also established Harriet's Daughters, a not-for-profit organization that aims to increase employment and wealth in the African American community.
She has been alderman of the 4th Ward since 2016. King has been married for over 30 years to prominent attorney and Chosen Few DJ Alan King, and she has been the primary organizer of the Chosen Few annual music festivals.
Alds. Roderick Sawyer and Raymond Lopez, state Rep. Kam Buckner, media figure DJ Doran, former Chicago Public Schools CEO Paul Vallas and businessman Dr. Willie Wilson are among the other mayoral candidates.