5 Candidates File To Run For 27th Ward Alderperson, Challenging Burnett Family’s Decades-Long Hold On Seat
Nick Martinez is a public health reporter who earned his Master’s in Public Health from the University of Chicago. Having previously worked with ProPublica, he focuses on health equity issues affecting the Chicago community.
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WEST LOOP — Five people have filed to run for 27th Ward alderperson, following a transition nearly a year ago that saw the previous alderman s son appointed to lead the ward. Current Ald. Walter Redmond Burnett (27th) was appointed by Mayor Brandon Johnson last year after his father, Walter Burnett Jr. retired after 30 years in office. Before leaving office last summer, Burnett Jr. told Block Club Chicago his youngest son, who goes by “Red,” would be vying to replace him. Now Walter Redmond Burnett is attempting to win an election for the first time as he fends off four challengers, according to petitions submitted to the Chicago Board of Elections by the Oct. 26th deadline to make the ballot. Mayor Brandon Johnson and Ald. Walter Redmond Burnett (27th) talk during the topping out ceremony for the Bally’s Chicago Casino, 560 W. Grand Ave., in West Town on April 30, 2026. Credit: Colin Boyle/Block Club Chicago Those challengers include Mary Eason, Nate Cornell, Dan Olas and