The big story from Chicago’s recent municipal election was county commissioner Jesus “Chuy” Garcia forcing Mayor Rahm Emanuel into a runoff — the first time in city history an incumbent mayor hasn’t won outright.

Emanuel had nearly everything in his favor: a well-organized political apparatus; seemingly limitless fundraising capacity; the active support of Barack Obama in a race that hinged on black votes; and the endorsement of seventy union locals.

Garcia had little name recognition, entered the race only three weeks before the filing deadline, and was outspent by Emanuel twelve to one. Nevertheless, the mayor didn’t break the 50 percent mark — winning 46 percent of the vote to Garcia’s 34.