Chicago City Wire

The latest Lincoln Poll reveals that only 14% of Chicago residents hold a favorable view of Mayor Johnson. The poll, conducted by the Illinois Policy Institute in collaboration with M3 Strategies, surveyed 798 likely voters in Chicago from January 21 to January 23, 2025. It has a margin of error of plus or minus 3.47 percentage points.

In addition to Mayor Johnson's low favorability ratings, more than three out of five Chicago voters disapprove of the Chicago Teachers Union (CTU) amid ongoing contract negotiations with the city. These negotiations are expected to result in the most expensive public union contract in Chicago's history.

Both Mayor Johnson and CTU have experienced significant declines in favorability among Hispanic residents following their public disagreement with outgoing CPS CEO Pedro Martinez.

Austin Berg, vice president of marketing for the Illinois Policy Institute, commented on the situation: “Chicago voters have voiced major concerns about the handling of issues affecting our city and its leaders. Chicagoans still support their local teachers, but CTU’s leadership has driven a wedge between them. It’s critical Mayor Johnson takes these concerns to heart and meaningfully work toward solutions that benefit the entire city – not just his allies in CTU.”

Berg suggested that "a good first step would be removing himself from contract negotiations with CTU so the city can better advocate for families and taxpayers." He added that this would allow Mayor Johnson to focus on addressing rising crime and taxes to make Chicago a safer and more attractive place for living and business.

The poll also highlighted crime, high taxes, poor city governance, and recent migrants as key issues facing Chicago.

Further details on Mayor Johnson's favorability can be found at illin.is/unpopular.