Lori Lightfoot, former federal prosecutor, won Chicago’s mayor race Tuesday, becoming the first black woman and first openly gay person to hold office.
Lightfoot defeated Toni Preckwinkle, leading 73.7 percent to 26.3 percent, according to the Chicago board of elections website.
“In this election Toni and I were competitors, but our differences are nothing compared to what we can achieve together,” Lightfoot said. “Now that it’s over, I know we will work together for the city that we both love.”
The runoff election was bound to be historic. Had either of the candidates won, she would have been Chicago’s first black female mayor.
The city is about 1/3 black, according to 2010 Census data.
Lightfoot’s campaign promised to rid City Hall of corruption. She also wanted to help low-income and working-class people.
“Together we can and will make Chicago a place where your zip code doesn’t determine your destiny,” Lightfoot said. “We can and we will break this city’s endless cycle of corruption adn never again–never ever–allow politicians to profit from elected positions.”
Chicago will be the largest US city with a black, female mayor once Lightfoot sworn in May 20.
“Today, you did more than make history,” Lightfoot said. “You created a movement for change.”