Eighteen months into his tenure as mayor of Chicago, Brandon Johnson’s promise of a brighter future is wearing thin for many residents. After taking office in May 2023 with a message of unity and renewal, Johnson is now facing a political crisis, with a recent poll showing his approval rating has fallen to just 15%.
The Change Research survey, conducted in late November, paints a grim picture for the Democrat: 70% of Chicagoans now view him unfavorably, showing widespread frustration with his leadership. For a mayor who pledged to tackle the city’s rising crime rates and persistent economic challenges, the numbers suggest his administration has fallen short of expectations.
During his inaugural address, Johnson vowed to chart a new course for Chicago, assuring residents that a better day is ahead. However, his tenure has been marked by missteps and policies that have failed to deliver on those lofty promises. From crime to budgetary concerns, Johnson’s leadership has come under fire from both political opponents and disillusioned constituents.
Johnson has recently faced significant backlash due to his handling of two incidents involving antisemitism.
In late October a 39-year-old Orthodox Jewish man was shot while walking to a synagogue in Chicago’s