Democracy at Work

The city of Chicago recently made history, electing its first gay, African-American female mayor, Lori Lightfoot. It also made history by ending a vicious cycle of political corruption.
For many years, the city’s politicians have been charged with crimes and dishonesty. As the Chicago Tribune noted, this year, the city saw “its 30th alderman since 1972, Willie Cochran, get convicted of a crime related to official duties.” For generations, the city’s aldermen have abused their powers. Currently, 50-year incumbent Edward Burke is facing extortion charges. The FBI has been investigating the City Council and reported that Burke pressured restaurant magnates to hire him to do property tax appeals work in exchange for permit approvals.
Given the federal investigations and the scope of city officials misconduct, corruption and money in politics were topics of debate in the recent mayoral election. Unlike her opponent, Toni Preckwinkle, Lightfoot steered clear of the corrupt path Chicago’s Democratic Party has taken in the past. Preckwinkle was chair of the deceitful Cook County Democratic Party. Lightfoot was a fresh face. She is exactly what Chicagoans want in a new mayor.
Throughout the race, Lightfoot spoke out against corruption in Chicago’s Democratic Party. Unafraid, Lightfoot expressed concerns about Preckwinkle’s strong ties to the city’s “Democratic machine.” She challenged an era of corruption in Chicago politics, advocating for campaign finance reform and anti-corruption laws, stating that the city’s “entrenched Democratic machine doesn’t want us to get there.” The city’s Democratic politicians have been dishonest and have been bystanders that have perpetuated corruption. Lightfoot was the fresh face the city wants and needs.
Yes, Mayor Emmanuel’s video scandal pushed him to pull out of the election and, in turn, gave Lightfoot more of a platform to voice her opinions. But the election of Lightfoot was more than just a direct response to Emmanuel. He didn’t give her the election. Her unwavering commitment to end corruption paved the road on which she walked to victory.
Lightfoot’s election marks a change in Chicago politics. Voters fed up with corruption wanted change. The election didn’t go to Preckwinkle or to big money or to an incumbent. Lightfoot made history in Chicago.