Elianne Bahena to Run Unopposed for 22nd Ward Seat
The former chief of staff is the only candidate filed to succeed Alderman Michael Rodriguez in the February 2027 election.
Updated on Oct. 27, 2026 in Elections
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Elianne Bahena stands as the sole candidate for Chicago's 22nd Ward alderperson following the filing of election petitions. The municipal election will take place on February 23, 2027.
Why it matters
The race follows incumbent Alderman Michael Rodriguez's decision to retire and spend more time with his family. Bahena, a former director of policy and community engagement, is the only individual seeking the office for the next term.
Elianne Bahena is the singular candidate who submitted petitions for the 22nd Ward seat by the Monday deadline. This follows the scheduled February 23, 2027, municipal election date.
The players
Elianne Bahena
She is the sole candidate running for the 22nd Ward alderperson seat and a former official within the current alderman's office.
Michael Rodriguez
The current 22nd Ward alderman is retiring from his position to focus on his family life.
The details
Bahena served as chief of staff for Alderman Michael Rodriguez starting in July 2023 after working as his director of policy and community engagement since 2022. She was also elected to the 10th Police District Council in 2023.
Timeline
2022: Bahena began working on Alderman Michael Rodriguez's staff.
July 2023: Bahena moved into the chief of staff role.
2023: Bahena won election to the 10th Police District Council.
September 2026: Michael Rodriguez publicly announced his plan to retire.
February 23, 2027: The Chicago municipal election is scheduled to occur.
Political Context
Local elections in Chicago are governed by strict ballot access rules established by the Chicago Municipal Code election filing requirements. The absence of opposition in this ward reflects the specific candidate vetting process mandated by these local electoral statutes.
Residents of the 22nd Ward will have one candidate on the ballot for alderperson in the upcoming February election. This outcome changes the local ballot dynamics for voters who will see a single-choice race for this municipal office.
The takeaway
Voters in the 22nd Ward should prepare for an unopposed election cycle for their alderperson seat. Being aware of the single candidate allows residents to better understand the transition of leadership from Michael Rodriguez to his successor.
Further reading
Find more information on local races at the Chicago Elections page.
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