Tag

Chicago Politics

All articles tagged with #chicago politics

Giannoulias Enters Chicago Mayor’s Race With Massive Fundraising Lead
politics1 hour ago

Giannoulias Enters Chicago Mayor’s Race With Massive Fundraising Lead

Illinois Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias announced he’s running for Chicago mayor, posting a video and planning a formal Bronzeville launch, backed by a massive fundraising war chest (about $22 million on hand as of June) and major donors like Neil Bluhm. He joins a crowded field as the 2027 election approaches, with a platform centered on universal pre-K, higher wages, affordable housing and a fair tax system, and he says City Hall must be more competent while not naming Mayor Brandon Johnson.

Pfleger Removed Again at Saint Sabina Amid New Abuse Claim

Pfleger Removed Again at Saint Sabina Amid New Abuse Claim

Local Chicago priest Father Michael Pfleger has been removed from his leadership role at Saint Sabina Parish while the Archdiocese of Chicago investigates a new sexual‑abuse accusation dating to the early 1990s involving a Saint Sabina School student; Cardinal Cupich says the review will be thorough and independent. Pfleger calls the claim an 'absolute lie' and frames the move as political, noting this is his fifth allegation, with four prior accusations investigated and not sustained, including a 2021 reinstatement after previous probes. Pfleger remains a polarizing figure in Chicago activism and politics.

"Burger King Owner Testifies on Alleged Shakedown in Ed Burke Trial"
politics2 years ago

"Burger King Owner Testifies on Alleged Shakedown in Ed Burke Trial"

Shoukat Dhanani, the owner of a Burger King restaurant in Chicago, testified in court that he had a "gut feeling" that Ald. Edward Burke shut down the remodeling of his restaurant because Dhanani did not respond about Burke's property tax business. Prosecutors played secretly recorded conversations between Burke and his allies, revealing their attempts to strong-arm business for Burke's private property tax law firm. Burke's defense argues that the Dhananis misread the situation and were confused about needing a driveway permit. Dhanani also testified that his company never steered any work to Burke's firm.

Ed Burke Trial: Opening Statements and Witness Testimony Unveiled
politics2 years ago

Ed Burke Trial: Opening Statements and Witness Testimony Unveiled

The corruption trial of former Chicago Alderman Edward Burke resumed with political science professor Constance Mixon providing a crash course on the intricacies of Chicago politics. Mixon explained the history and makeup of the Chicago City Council, the parliamentary procedures, and the broad powers held by aldermen like Burke. She emphasized Burke's long-standing influence as the longest-serving member of the council and chair of the Finance Committee. The defense questioned Mixon about the power dynamics between Burke and former Mayor Rahm Emanuel. Burke is facing charges of racketeering, bribery, extortion, and unlawful activity, while two co-defendants are also on trial.