Alexi Giannoulias leads the 2027 Chicago mayoral market at 65% because early polling and voter excitement surveys show him as the strongest alternative to incumbent Brandon Johnson, who sits at 14%. Giannoulias, Illinois secretary of state, announced his candidacy in August with roughly $22 million in cash on hand, broad labor and business backing, and pledges to address fiscal pressures without new property taxes. Johnson formally launched his reelection bid in mid-September amid a 23% approval rating, an $882 million projected 2027 budget gap, and limited campaign funds under $650,000. Susana Mendoza trails at 9.5% as another statewide Democrat in the crowded field ahead of the February 23 first-round vote, which advances the top two to an April runoff if no candidate reaches a majority.