If you're feeling inundated with news about the U.S. Senate race, the gubernatorial campaign, and the upcoming battle for Chicago's open mayoral seat, now may be a good time to click over to Progress Illinois' Aldermanic Tracker to check in on the candidates seeking City Council's 50 slots.

According to the list we've compiled so far, in more than a fifth of the races (11 out of 50) the incumbent presently faces no challenger. Powerful Alds. Ed Burke (14th Ward), Richard Mell (33rd Ward), and Patrick O'Connor (40th Ward) are in this camp. Other wards -- particularly those with open seats -- are drawing a crowded field. Seven candidates are vying for alderman of the 46th Ward, left vacant by longtime councilwoman Helen Shiller's decision not to run, and five candidates are seeking both the 2nd and 43rd Ward open seats. Among the professions of those campaigning for alderman this municipal election cycle: firefighter, police officer, reverend, real estate agent, economist, and even a state representative.

Check out the list. And let us know who we're missing in the comments section or by emailing contact (at) progressillinois.com.