Mayor '11: While Sources Say Dart's In, Rahm's Still The Word

By Kevin Robinson in News on Sep 23, 2010 2:00PM

Sources close to Cook County Sheriff Tom Dart are telling the Associated Press that the county's top cop is "all the way in," adding that "he's decided to run." When asked directly of his plans by an AP reporter, Dart demurred, saying that he is "very strongly considering" a run for mayor that he plans to make an announcement in the next three or four weeks. Dart's name has been among the many that have been mentioned as potential replacements to Mayor Daley, who is not seeking re-election. Former Chicago Alderman and University of Illinois political scientist Dick Simpson was more blunt about Dart's prospects, telling CBS2 that "he automatically -- if he declares -- will be the leading candidate." Petitions have been circulating to get Dart's name on the ballot for mayor, although he's told the media that his supporters have asked if they could put petitions out and there is no organized effort.

Meanwhile, anonymous sources in the Obama administration have been telling the media that it is a distinct possibility that White House Chief of Staff Rahm Emanuel will leave the White House before the November 2 elections to launch a bid for mayor of Chicago. According to sources, reports the Tribune, Emanuel has been reaching out to potential rivals to be sure that there will be room for him in the race.

Such maneuvering has led to speculation by other local politicians and potential rivals. "I got the impression it is very likely he is going to do this," congressman Danny Davis, a potential candidate, told the Tribune. "We talked about, if we were to become candidates, what kind of campaigning that should be done — that it's important to try and keep the city as harmonized as possible and that the city not become split and divided." Mike Quigley, the congressman that holds Rahm's old seat told the Tribune that Emanuel's notoriously tough mentality hasn't been a factor. "He's a big dog. Big dogs don't need to do that," said Quigley, who says he spoke to Rahm this week.

The due date for ballot access petitions is November 22, and the mayoral election will be February 22, 2011 with a run-off, if necessary, on April 5, 2011.