CHICAGO (AP) — If Jesus “Chuy” Garcia is going to have a shot at upsetting Chicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel in an April runoff, he’ll need to quickly solidify a coalition of minorities, union members and progressives reminiscent of one that buoyed his mentor, Harold Washington, the city’s first black mayor.
Emanuel enjoys big advantages in money and experience, having raised millions more than Garcia, a Cook County commissioner who jumped into the race just three months ago. The ex-congressman and White House chief of staff also has the backing of his former boss, President Barack Obama, who recorded ads for Emanuel and stumped for him during a stop in Chicago last week.
But a beaming Garcia remained optimistic Wednesday, a day after voters not only denied Emanuel an easy second term but put several established Chicago politicians on the ropes, including a grandson of former Mayor Richard J. Daley. He said the election was a message from working people who believe Emanuel puts the interests of business and the wealthy before them.
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Political consultant Delmarie Cobb, who opposed Emanuel’s re-election, said Garcia will now get national attention from media and outside groups which will help counteract Emanuel’s millions of dollars.
“The mayor is weakened and it’s anybody’s ball game,” Cobb said.
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