Nobody But

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Harold Washington was the first black mayor of Chicago, serving from 1983 until his death in 1987. From his first mayoral campaign until the end of his life, Washington had the full support of Eugene Sawyer, who was then alderman of Chicago's sixth ward. Sawyer's support carried considerable clout as his ward had a predominantly black constituency and held the largest democratic majority vote in the city. Washington died suddenly just a few months into his second term, after which Sawyer served as acting mayor. In this way, Sawyer became the second black mayor of Chicago.

"Nobody but Harold" was a common refrain during Washington's 1987 campaign for re-election. The phrase appeared on pinback buttons and was heard at campaign rallies throughout Chicago.