The 25th Ward in Chicago is seeing a crowded race for alderperson, with five candidates announcing their runs for the seat. The ward, which covers Pilsen, University Village, and a portion of Little Village, may be facing an open race as incumbent Ald. Byron Sigcho-Lopez has yet to confirm whether he will run for reelection.
Candidates and Their Platforms
Aida Flores, a Pilsen educator and mother, is running for the third time, aiming to build an inclusive, multigenerational ward. Nubia Batista Willman, an immigration attorney and former public official, is also in the race, focusing on providing opportunities for neighbors in Pilsen and Little Village. Other candidates include Ian Watkins, a classically trained pianist and retired ballet dancer, Miguel Chacon, a real estate agent and vocal critic of Sigcho-Lopez, and Leonardo Quintero, a Pilsen neighbor and organizer.
These candidates will have to make their case to voters on issues such as development, gentrification, immigration, and the impacts of immigration enforcement operations. Factors like name recognition, the ability to mount a precinct operation, and strong fundraising will be key for candidates to become viable challengers.
Original reporting: Block Club Chicago — read the source article.
