Gage Park residents will head to the polls next year to decide whether Ald. Jeylu B. Gutierrez retains her seat in Chicago’s 14th Ward. Gutierrez, the ward’s first Latina alderperson, filed her petition for a second term alongside former challenger Raul Reyes, setting up a repeat contest from the 2023 municipal election.
Background on the candidates
Gutierrez entered City Council in 2023 after winning the seat vacated by the long‑time Ald. Ed Burke, who was convicted of federal racketeering, bribery and corruption charges. Backed by U.S. Rep. Jesús “Chuy” García, she previously served as district director for Cook County Commissioner Alma Anaya and worked as a counselor and in various roles within Chicago Public Schools. Since taking office, Gutierrez has emphasized community outreach and development in Gage Park, Archer Heights, Brighton Park and Chicago Lawn.
Raul Reyes, a project coordinator for the Chicago Department of Transportation, also filed his petition to run again. He previously served as a staff assistant in the City Clerk’s Office and made an unsuccessful bid for the 15th Ward aldermanic seat in 2015. In the 2023 race, Reyes garnered just 35% of the vote, losing to Gutierrez’s 65%.
Campaign financing
Financial disclosures show Reyes received a $50,000 contribution from the Committee to Elect Dan Burke, a political committee linked to former Ald. Ed Burke’s brother, Dan Burke. Gutierrez’s political committee has raised over $60,000 since the start of the year, with contributions from labor unions, local business owners and industry leaders, according to Illinois State Board of Elections records.
What’s at stake
The 14th Ward includes diverse neighborhoods that have faced disinvestment and public‑service challenges for years. Voters will be watching how each candidate plans to address issues such as public safety, infrastructure improvements, and support for local schools. Gutierrez’s record in her first term and her ties to progressive leaders like Rep. García are likely to be highlighted, while Reyes will argue that fresh leadership is needed to bring new solutions.
Election timeline
Both candidates filed their petitions with the Chicago Board of Elections, confirming their spots on the ballot for the 2027 municipal election. The filing deadline has passed, and the next steps include campaign outreach, debates and voter‑education efforts throughout the ward.
Residents are encouraged to stay informed about each candidate’s platform and to participate in the upcoming election, which will shape the direction of the 14th Ward for the next four years.
Original reporting: Block Club Chicago — read the source article.
