Waukegan, IL: A Historic City at a Crossroads

A Historic City at a Crossroads

Nestled on the shores of Lake Michigan, Waukegan, Illinois, serves as the county seat for Lake County—one of the wealthiest counties in America. Known for its diverse population, storied history, and burgeoning cultural revival, Waukegan is a city with immense potential and an equally dynamic political landscape.

Founded in 1849, Waukegan has seen its share of political turbulence. The mayoral seat, in particular, has been a revolving door, with leadership changing hands every four years almost like clockwork. This tradition of frequent political turnover has made Waukegan’s local elections an enduring source of intrigue, and 2025 promises to be no different.

A Heated Mayoral Race

This year’s race for mayor pits some of Waukegan’s most notable figures against each other, making for one of the most anticipated elections in recent memory. The incumbent, Mayor Ann B. Taylor, seeks to retain her position and continue her tenure. However, she faces stiff competition from several formidable challengers:

• Sam Cunningham, Waukegan’s first Black mayor, is hoping to reclaim the seat he held from 2017 to 2021.

• Keith Turner, the 6th Ward Alderman, brings a fresh perspective and a strong local following to the race.

• Miguel Rivera, a community organizer, represents the grassroots effort to bring new ideas and a people-first approach to city leadership.

• Harold Beading, a former alderman, adds another layer of experience and institutional knowledge to the contest.

This diverse slate of candidates offers Waukegan residents distinct visions for the city’s future, ensuring that the election will be closely watched and hotly debated.

A City on the Rise

Beyond the political theater, Waukegan finds itself in a promising position. The city recently announced a balanced budget—a significant milestone that underscores responsible fiscal management. Adding to the optimism is the opening of Waukegan’s temporary casino, which has already begun to generate substantial revenue for the city. This development has sparked hope for further economic revitalization, with plans for a permanent casino on the horizon.

The city’s strategic location, coupled with its rich cultural fabric, positions Waukegan as a prime candidate for growth. However, the next mayor will need to navigate challenges such as infrastructure improvements, public safety, and fostering inclusivity in a diverse community.

A Community Voice

As the mayoral race heats up, the question on everyone’s mind is: Who will lead Waukegan into this new chapter? To gauge the pulse of the community, we’ve included a poll below to let residents share their thoughts on the upcoming election.

Waukegan Next Mayor

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• Sam Cunningham
• Miguel Rivera
• Harold Beading
• Keith Turner

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The Future Awaits

Waukegan stands at a crossroads. With its balanced budget and growing economic opportunities, the city is poised for a renaissance. However, much depends on the outcome of the 2025 mayoral election. The stakes are high, the candidates are compelling, and the future of this historic city is very much in the hands of its residents.

Stay tuned as Waukegan prepares to write its next chapter—a story of resilience, renewal, and the enduring spirit of its people.