Matt Brewer Has Declared Candidacy for Chicago Mayor

The Wieners Circle co-owner entered the race following a public dispute with Mayor Brandon Johnson.

Updated on Sept. 29, 2026 in Openings & Closings

Bold geometric editorial illustration of a Chicago brick building facade, representing city municipal governance. — Matt Brewer, owner of The Wieners Circle, officially launched his campaign for mayor of Chicago, citing dissatisfaction with Mayor Brandon Johnson’s administration. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

Live Poll

Is it a good idea for business owners to use their brand for political messaging?

Matt Brewer, co-owner of The Wieners Circle, has officially entered the race for Mayor of Chicago. The announcement follows his removal from leadership roles at the Chicago Housing Authority by Mayor Brandon Johnson.

Why it matters

Brewer cited city government dysfunction as the primary driver for his campaign. His candidacy comes after he and Mayor Johnson engaged in an increasingly public disagreement regarding local leadership and housing authority governance.

The Chicago Housing Authority board approved Keith Pettigrew as CEO in a 7-2 vote. Matt Brewer, who is 42, previously served as the board's chair and interim operating chairman before his removal.

The players

Matt Brewer

He is a co-owner of The Wieners Circle who previously served as the board chair and interim operating chairman of the Chicago Housing Authority.

Brandon Johnson

He is the current Mayor of Chicago who removed Matt Brewer from his positions at the Chicago Housing Authority.

Keith Pettigrew

He is the current CEO of the Chicago Housing Authority who was appointed by the board in March 2026.

The Wieners Circle

It is a popular hot dog stand located at 2622 N. Clark St. that frequently uses its marquee to share messages with the public.

The details

The Wieners Circle, a famous hot dog stand at 2622 N. Clark St. known for its marquee, has recently displayed messages critical of Mayor Johnson. Brewer purchased the business in 2015, which has been a staple in the area since it opened in 1983.

The Wieners Circle first opened in 1983.
Matt Brewer and Ari Levy purchased the business in 2015.
The Housing Authority board voted to appoint Keith Pettigrew in March 2026.
Keith Pettigrew assumed the role of CEO in April 2026.
The marquee displayed a message criticizing Mayor Johnson in September 2026.

Market Landscape

This race follows the pattern of intense political competition set by the 2023 Chicago mayoral election. The entry of a local business owner into the field marks a shift in the ongoing struggle for influence over city institutions.

Residents can expect the mayoral race to center on debates over the management of city-run entities like the Chicago Housing Authority. The campaign may lead to increased public discourse and varying messaging from local businesses regarding city administration.

The takeaway

The entry of a local business owner into the mayoral race highlights a growing tension between city officials and local leaders. Voters should prepare for a campaign focused on institutional management and the current direction of city government.