Attorney General Lisa Madiganon Wednesdaydefinitively ruled out running for mayor of Chicago, becoming the first major potential candidate to do so following Mayor Rahm Emanuel’s decision not to seek re-election.
It was Madigan who surprised the state political world one year ago by announcing she would not seek a fifth term.
Her availability for a mayoral run heightened speculation in political circles that she would join the race. She has $2.2 million in her campaign coffers.
But in a statement issued Wednesday evening, Madigan was clear she has no intention of joining the crowded field of candidates.
“I am a lifelong resident of Chicago. I care deeply for the city. There are a lot of challenges facing Chicago, and I plan to continue helping as a resident and not as mayor,” she said.
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