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We'll provide the supplies and show you how to collect petition signatures to ensure DJ's place on the ballot. We're gathering signatures in August at locations throughout the ward. Wherever you live and whenever you're available, you can help.We're excited to work with you!<img src="https://run.imgix.net/aea27c9b-41c1-4f70-8f2d-0baa7eb0e2cf/bacf29ea-a39f-48c3-80ef-8e24024fecab/bacf29ea-a39f-48c3-80ef-8e24024fecab.png?ixlib=js-3.8.0&amp;bri=0&amp;con=0&amp;sat=0&amp;high=0&amp;shad=0&amp;usm=0&amp;rect=0%2C0%2C1024%2C1024&amp;w=1500" alt="" caption="" align="center" alignwidth="50" variant="framed">

<h2>Get DJ on the Ballot</h2>

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Join Team DJ in building something better for the 44th Ward

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DJ and team would love to hear from you!

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Candidate for Alderman in Chicago's 44th Ward

<h1>About DJ</h1>

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DJ is running for 44th Ward Alderman because everyone deserves to feel safe, stay connected, and thrive economically — these pillars protect what we love about our neighborhood and prepare it for the future.

<h2>What We're Fighting For</h2>

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<h2>Campaign Updates</h2>

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<h2>DJ Announces His Run for 44th Ward Alderman</h2>"This campaign is going to be about neighborhood-first leadership."

<h2>Meet DJ in August</h2>Dates and locations on the Events page

DJ engaging with voters signing petitions

<h2>Keep DJ on the Ballot</h2>The more signatures we collect, the better. Join us!

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<h4>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 the city he loves. </h4><img src="https://run.imgix.net/aea27c9b-41c1-4f70-8f2d-0baa7eb0e2cf/5f94891d-4c1d-45d3-92be-6de2e14011fb/5f94891d-4c1d-45d3-92be-6de2e14011fb.jpg?ixlib=js-3.8.0&amp;bri=0&amp;con=0&amp;sat=0&amp;high=0&amp;shad=0&amp;usm=0&amp;rect=967%2C0%2C3065%2C2716&amp;w=1500" alt="" caption="DJ learned to fly in the Air Force and remains an avid pilot." align="left" alignwidth="40" tiltdirection="left" variant="framed">DJ learned to fly in the Air Force and remains an avid pilot.As the founder of&nbsp;Chicago Deserves Better, a non-profit focused on civic accountability and governance reform, DJ has become a powerful voice for residents who feel overlooked by City Hall.DJ is an entrepreneur who has led multiple companies in a 35-year business career, including as president and CEO of Aequalitas Media, which owned and operated print and digital publications as one of the fastest-growing LGBTQ+ media companies in the United States.DJ was executive director of the National Equality Media Association, comprised of LGBTQ+ publishers nationwide. In 2022 he was named one of <a href="https://www.editorandpublisher.com/stories/eps-25-over-50,239459" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">"25 over 50" by Editor and Publisher Magazine</a>, recognized as a publisher with a strong work ethic, transformational mindset, and a commitment to journalistic and publishing excellence, with ability to lead during challenging times.Currently DJ is CEO of Aviator Development LLC and a real estate broker with Pearson Realty Group specializing in complex residential and commercial transactions. As CEO of Aviator Development, DJ acquires and modernizes properties and provides affordable housing throughout the city.DJ is running for 44th Ward Alderman because he believes city government has become inefficient, ineffective, and disconnected from the needs of everyday Chicagoans. He will bring a neighborhood-focused, responsive style of leadership that improves public safety, increases smart development, strengthens transparency, unifies our diverse communities, and advocates for seniors, small businesses, homeowners, and renters.<img src="https://run.imgix.net/aea27c9b-41c1-4f70-8f2d-0baa7eb0e2cf/36189ebb-449f-41ad-b0af-48e825038315/36189ebb-449f-41ad-b0af-48e825038315.jpg?ixlib=js-3.8.0&amp;bri=0&amp;con=0&amp;sat=0&amp;high=0&amp;shad=0&amp;usm=0&amp;rect=0%2C478%2C2316%2C2610&amp;w=1500" alt="" caption="DJ and his husband (and their dog) live in Lakeview. " align="left" alignwidth="40" tiltdirection="left" variant="framed">DJ and his husband (and their dog) live in Lakeview. <img src="https://run.imgix.net/aea27c9b-41c1-4f70-8f2d-0baa7eb0e2cf/f966e017-6316-46c7-9b13-e668a81df648/f966e017-6316-46c7-9b13-e668a81df648.jpg?ixlib=js-3.8.0&amp;bri=0&amp;con=0&amp;sat=0&amp;high=0&amp;shad=0&amp;usm=0&amp;rect=0%2C0%2C2267%2C3041&amp;w=1500" alt="Oliver in Balloons" caption="OLIVER" align="left" alignwidth="40" tiltdirection="left" variant="framed">OLIVER

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We're building something better for the 44th Ward

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Meet DJ and team throughout the 44th Ward!

<h2>Campaign Events</h2>

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Dennis (DJ) Doran, his husband, and their dog have proudly called Lakeview home for 15 years. An Air Force veteran, business leader, and nonprofit founder, DJ has dedicated himself to community advocacy and government accountability.Now, DJ is running for Alderman to bring transparent leadership to the 44th Ward. His priorities:Ensuring Public Safety: Keeping our families and streets secure.Improving Public Transit: Building and maintaining a reliable, accessible system.Strengthening the Local Economy: Fighting for affordability and supporting our small businesses.

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Campaign website of Dennis (DJ) Doran, candidate for alderman in Chicago's 44th Ward

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<h4>Campaign Launch</h4>

<h4>Coffee with DJ!</h4>

Share your thoughts about the 44th Ward and learn about DJ's vision for our community.

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Why it's necessary:<ul><li>Active commercial corridors:&nbsp;Lakeview East's Belmont, Broadway, and Halsted corridors are full of small businesses, but post-pandemic recovery has been uneven.</li><li>Ward-level priority:&nbsp;The 2025 44th Ward Community Plan (released after extensive resident input) explicitly lists "Local Businesses &amp; Commercial Corridors" as a top focus area, reflecting voter demand for balanced development.</li><li>Broader pressure:&nbsp;Chicago's economic dashboard shows job postings rising in early 2026, but North Side neighborhoods like those in our Ward need targeted support to prevent vacancies and maintain the neighborhood's unique character.</li></ul>My plan is clear and practical:<ul><li>Streamline permitting so small businesses can open and grow faster.</li><li>Use menu funds for storefront improvements and corridor enhancements.</li><li>Partner with the Lakeview/Roscoe Village Chamber to attract the right kind of development that adds jobs while protecting our residential streets. I plan to work closely with all business stakeholders in the Ward as well as all of the organizations that are impacted by growth and development to ensure we maintain a balanced approach to both.</li></ul>

Support the small businesses we love on Broadway, Belmont, and beyond — not just the big developments and national retailers. The 44th Ward needs jobs and growth that benefit the people who already live here.

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<h2>Smart Development</h2>

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASECHICAGO, IL, Thursday, July 23, 2026 — The campaign of Dennis (DJ) Doran today announced the formation of its core campaign team as it prepares to launch signature-gathering efforts for Alderman of Chicago’s 44th Ward.The team includes 1833 Group, a fundraising firm led by James (JR) Patton, and election law counsel from Odelson, Murphey, Frazier &amp; McGrath, Ltd (OMFM).The 1833 Group will lead the campaign's fundraising strategy, while OMFM’s elections team will provide legal guidance on ballot access and compliance as the campaign moves from the signature-gathering phase to the general election."I am incredibly happy to have 1833 and OMFM on board," Doran said. "A winning campaign needs an experienced team with good judgement and a track record of success. I couldn't ask for a better team to help bring our message of transparent leadership to the voters.""Our team has a proven track record in fundraising and ballot initiative campaigns, and we're excited to partner with DJ’s campaign,” said Patton, who leads 1833 Group. The Doran campaign will begin signature-gathering efforts on July 28, the first day that petition sheets may be circulated for the February 23, 2027 municipal election.###About DJ DoranDennis (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.About 1833 GroupThe 1833 Group, an award winning firm, was founded in 2018. They have experience managing and overseeing political organizations, municipalities, and nonprofits, and they have partnered with many progressive candidates, causes, and local governments. They are based in Calumet City, IL.About OMFM Ltd.Odelson, Murphey, Frazier &amp; McGrath, Ltd., a professional legal corporation, provides legal services to municipal, school, township, park, and other governmental clients. The firm is based in Evergreen Park, IL. MEDIA CONTACT:Tom Ciavarella(312) 539-1377<a href="mailto:tom@djdoran.com">tom@djdoran.com</a><a href="http://www.djdoran.com">www.djdoran.com</a>

<h4>DJ Doran Campaign Announces Team Ahead of Signature-Gathering Effort</h4>

Why it's necessary:<ul><li>Safety:&nbsp;In March 2026, a senior was beaten on the Belmont CTA platform in Lakeview East — a high-visibility case that underscores safety and accessibility gaps.</li><li>Accessibility failures:&nbsp;Multiple CTA stations in the Ward lack full elevators or have narrow/inaccessible turnstiles, creating daily barriers for all residents, especially seniors and people with mobility issues.</li><li>Demographics:&nbsp;The 44th Ward has roughly 8.6% residents aged 65+ (per recent ACS data). Lakeview East contains pockets of older homeowners and renters who rely heavily on the Red, Brown, and Purple Lines. Citywide, 1 in 5 Chicagoans risk losing reliable transit access if state funding isn't secured.</li></ul>My plan is clear:<ul><li>Push CTA for urgent elevator repairs and full accessibility upgrades at all 44th Ward stations</li><li>Partner with Pace to expand senior paratransit options</li><li>Fight for full state funding so service cuts don't hit the 44th Ward hardest</li></ul>

Cleaner and more accessible CTA stations. More bike lanes and fewer "ghost buses." Residents should be able to travel throughout the city without fear or frustration.

<h2>Public Transportation</h2>

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASEChicago, 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 <a href="http://www.djdoran.com">www.djdoran.com</a>.###About DJ DoranDennis (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<a href="mailto:tom@djdoran.com">tom@djdoran.com</a><a href="http://www.djdoran.com">www.djdoran.com</a>

<h4>Doran Campaign Reaches Signature Goal for Ballot Access</h4>

<h4>Coffee Talk</h4>

Coffee Talk

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASECHICAGO, IL, Monday, July 13, 2026 — Dennis (DJ) Doran today welcomed newfound attention to the issue of a city charter for Chicago, following a Substack article on the topic from Congressman Mike Quigley. Doran has championed this cause for years, founding the nonprofit Chicago Deserves Better specifically to lobby local government for meaningful reform."I'm glad more voices are joining the call for a city charter," Doran said. "This isn't a new fight for me — it's one I've been leading for years, through Chicago Deserves Better and in direct conversations with local officials. The more people who recognize the urgency of this issue, the better off our city governance will be."Doran founded Chicago Deserves Better to garner support for a city charter: a constitution-style structure that delineates power and authority within the the City of Chicago.Since then, Doran has gathered over 38,000 signatures in support of a ballot referendum to establish a city charter commission. And in collaboration with Alderman Raymond Lopez of the 15th Ward, Chicago Deserves Better secured 24 aldermanic cosponsors to raise the issue with the full City Council.While Doran welcomes Quigley’s recent statements on the issue, he noted the importance of sustained, consistent advocacy over time. "Talking about a city charter is a good start," Doran said. "But real change comes from years of steady work, building coalitions, and staying engaged with local government.”Doran recently stepped aside as head of Chicago Deserves Better to focus on his run for Alderman of the 44th Ward. His campaign remains committed to advancing the city charter initiative, and he will continue working with community members and local officials to advance this goal.###About DJ DoranDennis (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.&nbsp;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. CONTACT:Tom Ciavarella(312) 539-1377<a href="mailto:tom@djdoran.com" style="color: var(--color-text); text-decoration-color: var(--color-text);">tom@djdoran.com</a><a href="http://www.djdoran.com" style="color: var(--color-text); text-decoration-color: var(--color-text);">www.djdoran.com</a>

<h4>Doran Welcomes Growing Consensus on City Charter, Notes His Years of Leadership on the Issue</h4>

My plan is results-focused:<ul><li>More beat meetings and stronger CPD partnerships in high-risk areas</li><li>Expanded camera coverage and better lighting on key corridors (Belmont, Broadway, Surf)</li><li>Targeted prevention programs focused on retail theft, car break-ins, and gun violence</li><li>Faster response times and real accountability so residents feel safe again — day and night</li></ul>

The 44th Ward should feel safe day and night. Real safety means fewer thefts, faster police response, and proactive prevention — not just more talk.

<h2>Public Safety</h2>

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASEDJ Doran Announces Candidacy for Alderman of Chicago’s 44th WardCHICAGO, IL, Tuesday, May 19, 2026 — Business executive, Air Force veteran, and Lakeview community advocate Dennis (DJ) Doran announces his candidacy for Alderman of Chicago’s 44th Ward today at 11 AM in front of a local icon, Stella’s Diner at 3042 North Broadway.Doran’s campaign will focus 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.“For nearly 15 years my husband and I have called the 44th Ward our home,” Doran said. “Our neighborhoods need a strong leader with a practical, results-oriented approach to local government. The residents of the 44th Ward deserve a real choice and an independent voice when they cast their ballots for Alderman.”Doran is an entrepreneur who has led multiple companies spanning a 35-year business career. He is currently CEO of Aviator Development, a real estate broker at Pearson Realty Group, and 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.&nbsp;EVENT DETAILS:What: Campaign Launch, Dennis (DJ) Doran for Alderman of the 44th Ward Who: The event is open to Ward residents, supporters, media, and members of the public When: Tuesday, May 19, 2026 at 11 AM Where: Stella's Diner, 3042 N. Broadway, Chicago, IL 60657 CONTACT:Tom Ciavarella(312) 539-1377<a href="mailto:tom@djdoran.com">tom@djdoran.com</a>

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<h4>DJ Doran Announces Candidacy for Alderman of Chicago’s 44th Ward</h4>

Meet DJ and share your thoughts about the ward -- what's working, what's not, and what you'd like to see in the future.

<h4>Coffee &amp; Convo w/ DJ!</h4>

Meet DJ and share your thoughts on the neighborhood -- what's working, what's not, and what you'd like to see in the future.

DJ Doran for 44th Ward Alderman

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DJ Doran for 44th ward alderman

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DJ Announces His Run for 44th Ward Alderman

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