Chicago has elected its first politically independent mayor in the city's 189-year history, as voters rejected candidates from both major parties in a stunning rebuke of traditional political machines.

The Election

The independent candidate won with 54% of the vote on a platform of police reform, fiscal responsibility, and breaking the city's endemic corruption. Turnout was the highest in 40 years at 62%.

National Implications

Political scientists say the result reflects growing voter frustration with partisan politics and could inspire independent candidates in other major cities.