Stephanie Mendoza Enters Evanston Mayoral Race

The competition for Evanston’s next mayor is intensifying as Stephanie Mendoza, 33, announces her candidacy. Currently serving her second term as city clerk, Mendoza confirmed her intention to run in the upcoming special mayoral election. Her goal is to succeed Mayor Daniel Biss, who is anticipated to move to Washington after his run for the U.S. Congress in November.

Mendoza expressed her motivation, stating, “Evanston’s community transformed my life. I want every family to have the same opportunities I had.” Elected as city clerk in 2021, Mendoza became the first Latina in Evanston to hold this position. If successful, she will also be Evanston’s first Latina mayor.

Mayor Biss plans to vacate his office on October 18, triggering a special election for the rest of his term, which concludes in 2029. In the interim, the current aldermen will choose an acting mayor. If more than two candidates qualify, a primary is set for February 23.

Mendoza’s duties as city clerk include maintaining city records and overseeing municipal functions. She emphasized transparency and modernization within City Hall, improving public access and implementing a records management policy.

The challenge of affordable housing in Evanston has persisted for decades. Approximately 40% of residents spend over a third of their income on housing, affecting economic diversity.

Mendoza advocates for cost-effective housing policies. She aims to support the city’s Housing4All initiative, addressing affordability and preventing resident displacement.

Her vision includes delivering high-quality city services across all wards and ensuring budgetary alignment with community values.

In recent campaign developments, 47 volunteers joined since her August 5 announcement, assisting in signature collection for her candidacy. Illinois law requires each candidate to gather 946 to 1,513 signatures by October 26.

Running for mayor involves financial sacrifices for Mendoza, who currently earns $81,000 annually as city clerk. The mayor’s role offers a significantly lower salary of about $25,000 per year.

A Loyola University Chicago alumnus, Mendoza resides in the 2nd ward with her family. Her campaign, supported by pledges and growing volunteer support, forms part of a crowded race including past candidates and newcomers.

The new mayor is expected to be sworn in by May 2027, following election result certification.