Brandon Johnson

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Brandon Johnson is an American politician who has served as the 57th mayor of Chicago since May 15, 2023. He was born on March 27, 1976, in Elgin, Illinois, one of ten children. His father was a pastor and his mother died when he was 19. He is married to Stacie Rencher, and they have three children. They live in the Austin neighborhood on Chicago’s West Side.

Education and early career
Johnson earned a bachelor’s degree in youth development (2004) and a master’s degree in teaching (2007) from Aurora University. He began his career as a social studies teacher in Chicago Public Schools, teaching at Jenner Academy Elementary (2007–2010) and briefly at George Westinghouse College Prep before becoming a full-time union organizer. He joined the Chicago Teachers Union in 2011 and helped organize the 2012 teachers strike, later working on campaigns in 2015.

Cook County and public service
In 2018, Johnson was elected to the Cook County Board of Commissioners for the 1st district, defeating the incumbent. He represents parts of Chicago’s West Side and western suburbs and was reelected in 2022. While on the board, he sponsored the Just Housing Ordinance (2019), which prohibits landlords from asking about or considering a tenant’s criminal history. He also supported the 2019 Chicago Public Schools strike and remained active with the CTU.

Mayor of Chicago
Johnson ran for mayor in 2023 as a progressive. In the first round, he finished second and advanced to a runoff against Paul Vallas. He won the runoff and was sworn in as mayor on May 15, 2023, becoming Chicago’s third Black mayor and the first West Side mayor since the 1930s. His priorities include reducing homelessness, reforming policing and education, and finding new ways to fund city services.

As mayor, Johnson has pushed to cut red tape to speed housing and development. He promoted a plan called Bring Chicago Home to fund affordable housing and homelessness programs through a real estate transfer tax and other revenue ideas. He has favored non-police responses to mental health crises, greater investment in youth programs, and stronger efforts to address the root causes of crime rather than expanding police hiring.

In 2023–2024, Johnson oversaw a significant reorganization of the Chicago Public Schools board and engaged in negotiations over pensions and contracts, sometimes sparking public controversy. He supported Chicago’s bid to host the 2024 Democratic National Convention and has addressed issues from migrant housing to climate accountability, including a climate lawsuits against major oil companies.

Public opinion and challenges
Johnson’s tenure has included criticism and shifting public opinion. His approval ratings have fluctuated, with some low points in 2024 and some signs of improvement in 2025.

Today
Brandon Johnson continues to lead Chicago from the West Side, balancing housing, education, public safety, and budget challenges while navigating a complex city agenda and diverse community needs.