Jeylú Gutiérrez (born 1987/1988)^[1] is an American politician from Chicago. She is the alderperson for Chicago City Council's 14th ward. She won the 2023 election to the office, replacing 54-year incumbent Ed Burke.^[2] The 14th ward includes parts of the Archer Heights and Gage Park neighborhoods.

Early life and career

Gutiérrez was born in Mexico, and immigrated to Chicago when she was 15 years old.^[3] She worked as a counselor and community liaison for public schools, including Benito Juarez High School in Pilsen and Hernandez Middle School in Gage Park. Her interest in politics began as a volunteer in Chuy García's campaign for mayor in 2015.^[4] She later worked as a district director for Cook County Commissioner Alma Anaya.^[4][5]

In September 2022, Gutiérrez announced her campaign for alderperson of the 14th ward, along with an endorsement from U.S. Representative Chuy García.^[6][7] The 14th ward seat had been held since 1969 by Ed Burke, who had been indicted in 2019 and was awaiting trial for corruption and racketeering charges.^[8][9] Redistricting following the 2020 Census changed the boundaries of the 14th ward such that its Latino majority grew and some majority-white precincts that had heavily favored Burke were removed.^[7][4] In November, Burke announced that he would not seek re-election.^[10][11] After Burke's exit, Gutiérrez faced Raúl Reyes, a staff assistant in the City Clerk's office who had ties to Burke.^{[3][4][12][13]} Gutiérrez received endorsements and contributions from state senator Celina Villaneuva, state representative Aaron Ortiz, and the SEIU Illinois Council PAC. In the February 2023 election, Gutiérrez won with over 65% of the vote.^[14][2][3]

Electoral history

References