Doran Campaign Reaches Signature Goal for Ballot Access
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Chicago, IL — Tuesday, Aug 4, 2026 — The campaign of Dennis (DJ) Doran announced today that it has collected the required number of signatures to secure a spot on the ballot for the February 2027 election for Alderman of the 44th Ward.
"Getting on the ballot is the first real test of a campaign, and we got our signatures faster than anyone expected," Doran said. "By signing this early, voters are showing there’s real interest in a change in leadership in the ward."
The campaign gathered the necessary signatures in the first week of the petition process, which started on July 28. Doran credited the fast pace to two things: the dedication of his staff and volunteers, and the resonance of the campaign's message: restoring responsive neighborhood leadership, improving public safety and public transit, and supporting responsible economic development throughout the Ward.
"I want to thank every single volunteer who staffed our events, met with voters, and devoted their summertime hours to this effort," Doran said. "I couldn’t be more grateful for your enthusiasm and hustle."
Despite meeting the minimum signature requirements, the Doran campaign said it will not slow down. The team announced it is continuing to collect signatures, with a goal of reaching voters in every precinct and neighborhood in the 44th Ward within the 90-day petition period.
"This isn't just about meeting a signature threshold," Doran said. "It's about showing up everywhere — every precinct, every neighborhood — and bringing our message of transparent, resident-first government to the voters. The residents of the 44th Ward deserve a real choice and an independent voice when choosing their Alderman. That's what this campaign is about, and that's what we're going to keep reminding our neighbors between now and February."
The campaign encouraged residents interested in volunteering or learning more about Doran’s platform to visit www.djdoran.com.
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About DJ Doran
Dennis (DJ) Doran is an entrepreneur, an Air Force veteran, a pilot, and a community advocate who has a demonstrated ability to build businesses and relationships across Chicago. He is formerly the executive director of the nonprofit Chicago Deserves Better, which works to establish a commission to develop a City Charter, a local constitution to guide Chicago’s future.
Doran’s campaign for 44th Ward Alderman focuses on restoring responsive neighborhood leadership, with an emphasis on improving public safety and public transit, strengthening accountability at City Hall, and supporting responsible economic development throughout the Ward.
MEDIA CONTACT:
Tom Ciavarella
(312) 539-1377