Three Candidates Enter Race for 13th Ward Seat

Al Cacciottolo, Skyler Cepek, and Keith Judge submitted nominating papers to fill the vacant 13th Ward seat. The Chicago Board of Election Commissioners confirmed the filings on Tuesday. The race will determine the next representative for a Southwest Side district that has been held by Marty Quinn since 2011.

Quinn announced in July that he would not seek reelection after serving four terms on the City Council. He has represented the ward, which includes Clearing, Garfield Ridge, West Elsdon, and West Lawn, for 15 years. During his tenure, Quinn focused on securing resources for neighborhood schools, parks, and public safety. He also advocated for a new police district on the Southwest Side and frequently criticized Mayor Brandon Johnson.

Cacciottolo is a longtime Garfield Ridge resident and a division superintendent in the city's Department of Streets and Sanitation. He has led the Garfield Ridge Neighborhood Watch for nearly 20 years and served on the Midway Chamber of Commerce board. Quinn has endorsed Cacciottolo, who stated he intends to continue the outgoing alderman's focus on constituent services.

Cepek works as a legislative assistant to Democratic state Sen. Mary Edly-Allen. Edly-Allen represents the 31st District, which covers parts of Lake County. Public information regarding the specific platforms or priorities of Cepek and Judge is currently limited.

Voters have until Nov. 2 to file objections to the candidates' nominating papers. The Board of Elections is scheduled to certify the ballot on Dec. 17. The general election for the 13th Ward seat is set for Feb. 23.