By Christina Fernández-Morrow, Hola America
Robert Cervantes won the democratic primary in the race for mayor of Silvis, Illinois with over 45% of the votes cast on February 25, 2025. The democratic candidate is expected to win the April 1 election. If so, Cervantes will become the second Latino to hold that office.
Cervantes, who served as Alderperson for the 1st Ward when he entered the mayoral race, has a long history of service to his community. During his 19 years as a city councilman, he saw his community through highs and lows, carefully listening to their needs while working on their behalf. “I knew running for mayor would not be easy, but I gladly took on the challenge. I believe the voters in Silvis were looking for a change in their city government,” he stated after the results were announced.
Photo by Wezz De La Rosa / Hola America
Drawing on the city’s motto, “City of Progress,” Cervantes has built his political priorities around three key elements: people, progress, and pride. He hopes to see those principles reflected in the city’s infrastructure, new businesses, community involvement, and events. “As the city changes, I want to be a part of that change,” he commented.
Cervantes’ commitment to service has deep roots in the Quad Cities. The 10th of 12 children, he watched his mother take charge of the family when his father passed away at the age of 50. Citing his admiration for his older siblings and their accomplishments, he is no stranger to hard work and compromise.
In his years of public service, Cervantes has built a strong network of support. He has been endorsed by Silvis’ City Administrator, Jerry Leibovitz, and even the current mayor, Matt Carter who referred to Cervantes’ track record of listening to his constituents and doing the right thing, no matter how difficult it might be to put their needs ahead of any political agenda.
His professional experience spans decades across industries, an asset as he works with voters and residents. He draws on what he learned as a Funeral Assistant, where his empathy and honesty helped him build trust among clients in their most vulnerable moments. “I don’t make unrealistic promises, and I try to stick to the facts,” he says. That direct and transparent approach has been the backbone of his political career and previous campaigns, leading his efforts towards next month’s election.
As Election Day approaches on April 1, Robert Cervantes stands at the threshold of making history. More than just a candidate, Cervantes reflects Silvis itself—a city built on resilience, community, and a forward-looking spirit. His life story, interwoven with the city’s history, speaks to a genuine desire to serve, not just to hold office. For the voters of Silvis, the choice they make will determine who leads their city, and how their community’s story of progress continues to unfold.
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