CHICAGO CULTURAL CENTER (WBBM Newsradio) — Chicago mayor Brandon Johnson does not seem concerned about new reports suggesting he’s lagging potential rivals in raising money for next year’s citywide election.
Channel Seven first reported the mayor’s campaign fund has about $900,000 on hand, after raising $15,000 since the end of September. Compare that with the only declared candidate, entrepreneur Joe Holberg, who’s already raised $500,000.
Of course, the mayor is also expected to benefit from his ties to labor groups including his old employer the Chicago Teachers Union.
After an appearance Tuesday at the Chicago Cultural Center, 78 E. Washington St., Mayor Johnson responded to questions about his fundraising ability by insisting he’s concentrating on his administration’s priorities.
“My focus is on building the safest, most affordable big city in America,” the mayor said.
He then sought to downplay fundraising importance by recalling his 2023 runoff win over his opponent, former Chicago public schools CEO Paul Vallas: “I believe I was outspent three-to-one … and I’m still the mayor of the city of Chicago.
Candidates can start collecting signatures in late July.
Featured Image Photo Credit: : Geoff Buchholz