BREAKING: Cook County Treasurer Maria Pappas has officially announced her candidacy for the 2027 mayoral election in Chicago. In an exclusive statement, Pappas confirmed her intention to run after securing reelection for her eighth term as treasurer next year.
Pappas, 76, known for her vibrant personality, has hinted at a mayoral bid for years but insists this time she is fully committed. “I’m in this treasurer’s race, and I’ve got to finish it up. But I said six months ago … that at the appropriate time, I’m going to announce,” Pappas stated during an interview with the Chicago Sun-Times on Tuesday. Her determination comes as current mayor Brandon Johnson faces significant challenges, including a rejected $600 million tax hike proposal aimed at addressing wealth disparities.
In her remarks, Pappas dismissed questions about the ongoing budget stalemate, emphasizing her focus on the future. “When I get in [the mayor’s office], it’ll be a tsunami,” she warned, indicating her plans to tackle Chicago’s pressing issues head-on.
Pappas’ entrance into the race could lead to a highly competitive field, potentially including prominent names such as Illinois Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias, retiring Illinois Comptroller Susana Mendoza, and City Clerk Anna Valencia, among others. She confidently stated, “I’m not afraid of anybody or anything or how much money I raise. I’m in.”
In a lighter moment, when asked about her energy levels to manage the city’s challenges, Pappas joked, “Maybe the city needs a … grandmother.” If elected, she would celebrate her 80th birthday as mayor, a milestone that adds a unique perspective to her candidacy.
Pappas has been a significant figure in Chicago politics since she took office in 1998. As treasurer, she oversees property tax management, ensuring that over 2,000 governmental bodies receive their due revenues. Recent studies she released reveal alarming trends, with residential property taxes rising most steeply in Black neighborhoods on the South and West sides, intensifying concerns about economic equity in the city. “When the Loop gets a cold, the rest of the city gets pneumonia,” Pappas remarked, underscoring the interconnected nature of Chicago’s financial health.
Despite her ambitions, Pappas remains committed to her weekly radio program on WVON-AM, titled “Black Homes Matter.” She expressed her reluctance to disrupt this platform, where she actively engages with the community, providing financial guidance and support. “I’ve given back $400 million to African Americans,” she noted, highlighting her dedication to community service.
As the 2027 election cycle heats up, Pappas’ entry adds a new layer of complexity to an already crowded field. Voters can expect a fierce contest ahead, with significant implications for Chicago’s future leadership and policies.
Stay tuned for updates as this story develops. Pappas’ commitment to the mayoral race signals a pivotal moment in Chicago politics, and her impact could resonate far beyond her candidacy.