LINCOLN PARK — It appears the race in the 43rd Ward could end up heading toward a runoff, according to the latest independent poll.
The poll, which was conducted Thursday, indicates the race in the ward has tightened significantly as the campaigns have ramped up.
Michele Smith (43rd) whose internal poll from early January put her in a good position to avoid a runoff at around 50 percent, is now polling at just 33.3 percent.
The one-question poll by Ogden and Fry, was conducted for the website Aldertrack, which has been providing in-depth analysis on the election.
In the poll of likely voter, Caroline Vickrey received 18.3 percent, Jen Kramer 11.3 percent and Jerry Quandt 3.8 percent.
Thirty-three percent of voters remained undecided.
Ogden & Fry's analysis indicated Smith is likely facing a runoff as her opponents intensify their campaigns.
While the numbers have tightened, Smith continues to have a major financial advantage in the race and the backing of Mayor Rahm Emanuel and his Super PAC Chicago Forward.
Aldertrack Ward 43 Poll by Aldertrack