Ald. Marty Quinn is tapping out of City Hall. The Southwest Side alderman announced Wednesday that he will not seek reelection in 2027, bringing a 15-year run on the Chicago City Council toward its final chapter. Quinn has been one of the council’s most visible voices on local development and public safety, and his exit sets up an open fight for the 13th Ward while taking one of Mayor Brandon Johnson’s most persistent skeptics out of the lineup.
The news was first reported by WGN-TV. In a follow-up interview with the Chicago Sun-Times, Quinn said he had "left it all out on the field" and pointed to the nonstop demands of ward work as a key factor in his decision.
A long run in the 13th Ward
Quinn was first elected in 2011 and has represented the 13th Ward since May 2011, according to Chicago Councilmatic. Public biographical listings note that he succeeded Frank Olivo and have tracked his reelection through successive cycles, as summarized by Wikipedia.
A combative presence at City Hall
During Mayor Brandon Johnson’s term, Quinn has been one of the most outspoken critics on the City Council, joining a bloc that pushed an alternate budget and sparring with the administration on issues ranging from hemp-product restrictions to local policing plans. The Chicago Sun-Times describes him as a frequent tactical vote and legislative foil for Johnson’s agenda.
What comes next for the 13th Ward
Quinn’s decision hands the Southwest Side something it rarely sees, an open-seat aldermanic race. Contests without an incumbent typically draw crowded fields and plenty of behind-the-scenes maneuvering, and the 2027 municipal cycle is expected to be no exception. Neighborhood groups, labor allies and seasoned political operators are likely to start circling as the ward’s future leadership comes into play.
In a statement to WGN-TV, Quinn said he was "proud to have worked closely with dedicated staff, residents, community groups and local law enforcement to ensure our voices were heard at City Hall." He added that he plans to serve out his term, help ensure a smooth transition and stay involved in community work even after he leaves office.
