Johnson Elected Chicago Mayor In Victory For Progressives

CHICAGO (AP) — Former teacher and union organizer Brandon Johnson has been elected Chicago mayor. Tuesday’s win is a major victory for the Democratic Party’s progressive wing as the nation’s third-largest city grapples with high crime and financial challenges. Johnson is a Cook County commissioner who was endorsed by the Chicago Teachers Union. He defeated former Chicago schools CEO Paul Vallas, who was backed by the police union. Johnson will succeed Lori Lightfoot, the first Black woman and first openly gay person to be the city’s mayor. Johnson’s victory capped a remarkable trajectory for a candidate who was little known when he entered the race. He climbed to the top of the field with organizing and financial help from the politically influential Chicago Teachers Union.