Evanston City Clerk Stephanie Mendoza Launches Campaign For Mayor

EVANSTON, IL — Evanston City Clerk Stephanie Mendoza announced Wednesday that she is running for mayor, opening her campaign with a message centered on opportunity, affordability and city services.

Mendoza, a two-term clerk, said her own path in Evanston shaped her decision to enter the race.

“I am running for Mayor because I believe in the power of Evanston,” Mendoza said. “This community changed the course of my life. The people of Evanston invested in me, believed in my potential, and opened doors that made my future possible. I want to ensure every family has those same opportunities.”

In June, current mayor Daniel Biss announced that he plans to resign from the position on Oct. 18 as he continues his campaign for Congress in the 9th District. This will trigger a special election next spring.

According to Mendoza's campaign announcement, her candidacy is connected to her personal history in Evanston. She came to the city as a young mother seeking a better future for her family and, with support from nonprofit organizations, early childhood programs, educators and neighbors, earned a bachelor’s degree in Political Science from Loyola University Chicago.

As City Clerk, Mendoza has led efforts to modernize City Hall by implementing a citywide records management policy, improving transparency and public access to government, restoring Vital Records services in the City of Evanston, and supporting initiatives to improve government operations.

Mendoza said her mayoral platform would focus on housing affordability, city services and budget priorities.

“It’s time for the next generation of leaders to take up the mantle in Evanston,” said Mendoza. “As Mayor, I will be laser focused on making Evanston a place where everyone can afford to live and afford to stay. I will demand high-quality City services for everyone no matter the ward. I will ensure that our budget reflects our values and we invest in our future, while being fiscally responsible. Finally, I will continue the work to Trump-proof our City and protect our neighbors.”

She also said the campaign plans to spend the next several weeks and months in the community.

The Evanston primary will take place on Feb. 23 before the special election on April 6 to determine who will serve the remainder of Biss's term.

The next regular election is in 2029, when all the city's elected positions will be up for four-year terms.