PILSEN — Longtime Ald. Danny Solis held onto his seat in the 25th Ward, avoiding a runoff in the five-way race.
With 100 percent of precincts reporting, Solis had 51 percent of the vote. His closest challenger, Byron Sigcho, had 18 percent.
Solis needed to land more than 50 percent of the vote Tuesday to avoid a runoff election in April.
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Addressing a crowd of supporters at Lalo's in University Village before all the totals were in, a confident Solis said "he felt good."
While 65-year-old Solis won't face a runoff in April, his ally Mayor Rahm Emanuel will. Acknowledging that some of his supporters planned to support mayoral challenger Jesus "Chuy" Garcia, Solis made it clear that his allegiance remains with Emanuel.
"People who are here with Chuy, God bless you, I love you," Solis said. "But may the best man win in April."
Solis' fate wasn't sealed leading up to the election Tuesday. A poll conducted by all-things elections website Aldertrack determined the question of a runoff was too close to call.
In addition to Sigcho, Solis was challenged by CPS teacher Ed Hershey, activist Jorge Mujica and financial adviser Roberto "Beto" Montano, his former chief of staff.
Ahead of the race, Solis and his four challengers faced questions about gentrification in Pilsen and a controversial metal shredder project that the alderman supports.
Ultimately apologizing for the "bureaucratic snafu," Solis also addressed concerns over $140,000 in unaccounted for ward funds that had been set aside for art projects in the 25th Ward.
In 2011, the 25th Ward race went to a runoff, but Solis ultimately defeated challenger Cuahutemoc Morfin with 54 percent of the vote.
The 25th Ward includes parts of Pilsen, Chinatown, the West Loop, Little Italy and Heart of Chicago.
Check out our full 2015 Aldermanic Election guide for more info on the candidates in this and other ward races.
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