Businessman Willie Wilson plans more Chicago gas and grocery giveaways

Wilson also considering another run for mayor after previous campaigns

Mar. 27, 2026 at 12:18am

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Businessman Willie Wilson is planning another round of gas and grocery card giveaways across Chicago. He is also weighing a potential run for mayor, after previous campaigns for the position.

Why it matters

Wilson's charitable giveaways have drawn both praise and criticism, with some seeing them as a way to gain political influence. His potential mayoral run would add another high-profile candidate to the race in a city facing challenges like rising crime and economic inequality.

The details

Wilson, a businessman and philanthropist, has held multiple gas and grocery card giveaway events in Chicago in recent years. He is now planning another round of these giveaways, which provide financial assistance to residents struggling with high prices. In addition, Wilson is considering running for mayor of Chicago, a position he has sought in the past.

  • Wilson is planning another round of gas and grocery giveaways in the coming weeks.

The players

Willie Wilson

A businessman and philanthropist in Chicago who has held multiple gas and grocery card giveaway events and is considering another run for mayor.

Tahman Bradley

The WGN Political Editor who interviewed Wilson about his future plans.

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What they’re saying

“Wilson joins WGN Political Editor Tahman Bradley to talk about his future plans, and what he says will convince him to run for Mayor.”

— Tahman Bradley, WGN Political Editor

What’s next

Wilson has not yet officially announced a mayoral campaign, but says he is weighing the decision and will make an announcement in the coming months.

The takeaway

Wilson's potential mayoral run and continued charitable giveaways highlight the complex role that wealthy individuals can play in local politics, providing assistance to residents but also potentially seeking to gain influence.