On June 7, Chicago Mayor Lori Lightfoot confirmed rumors and officially announced her re-election bid.
In an open announcement, she said, "Since I was sworn into office three years ago, I've led our city through a global pandemic, confronted guns and gangs, called out political corruption, and fought systemic inequality in Chicago's historically neglected communities.
"And while people might not always like my delivery, I am delivering results for Chicago. That work doesn't stop now.
"Here's the thing: I know what our city is capable of and I know what Chicagoans deserve. That's why I fight like hell every single day to make sure the City of Chicago is beholden to its residentsnot political insiders or special interest groups."
Lightfoot, a member of the LGBTQ+ community, made the announcement during Pride Month.
Democratic state Rep. Kam Buckner, Chicago Alds. Raymond Lopez and Roderick Sawyer, police officer Frederick Collins, businessman Willie Wilson, former Chicago Public Schools CEO Paul Vallas and media owner DJ Doran have all declared their candidacies for mayor. Lopez and Doran are also part of the LGBTQ+ community.
Election Day for the Chicago mayor's race is Feb. 28, 2023.