Trio of prominent Peoria leaders and young newcomer file petitions to get their names on 2025 ballot [Video]

PEORIA (25News Now) – Three well-known Peoria political figures and a surprise entry have filed nominating petitions to place their names on the ballot for next year’s race for mayor.

Monday was the deadline to file those petitions, and candidates include incumbent Mayor Rita Ali, who’s seeking a second term. Challenging Ali for mayor is 2nd District Council Member Chuck Grayeb, At-Large Council Member John Kelly, and 23-year-old political newcomer Jake Ryan.

Ryan told 25News he owns a Peoria-based entrepreneurial consulting firm called Council & Associates Advisors and believes he can use his business contacts to bring 1,000 jobs to Downtown Peoria.

Since more than three candidates are on the ballot, there will be a primary on Feb. 25, with the top two candidates advancing to the Apr. 1, election.

A primary also needs to be held in the 2nd District Council race for Grayeb’s council seat. The candidates are Krista Wresinski, Alex Carmona, and Estrella …