Chicago News Weekly GOTV Edition

Marti Worell

Wanda Wright

Dr. Mila K. Marshall, PhD

Contributors

NNPa Newswire theresa horton Stacy M. Brown

Mare Evans

Dr. Sanja Rickette Stinson

8348 S Stony Island Avenue Chicago, IL 60617 (773) 236-1464

vol. 1 No 6 Wednesday, November 2, 2022 Chicago News Weekly is published weekly on Wednesday. www. cnw media. com chi cagone

E notes

The Future is Yours V

oting . Why we vote and why it’s important? I can hear all my Young People saying, “it isn’t.” Then I ask, “Why not?” They respond most often, with something like, “um, it’s just not my thing.” So, I don’t stop. Next, I ask again, “What does that mean?” And YP (Young Person) says, “I’m just not into it.” This time I can hear or sense the irritation, but I still don’t stop, I push like I’m giving birth, I want the truth to emerge. I follow-up with the previous question, “What does that mean? “YA says, “My vote doesn’t count.” And I say very passionately, “You’re right. If you don’t vote, your vote doesn’t count, but if you vote, it counts. Not voting helps one of the candidates. Because a no vote goes to the victor.” YA says,” Yeah, everything is so corrupt nobody changes our situation, so what difference does it make?”

thE DIFFERENCE

There it is! Voting is important, but not only because of the usu al argument, that it your civic duty, which we were taught before public schools stop teaching and started programming students to simply pass tests.

Your vote could change the world for the better, because your candidate can just be the leader that makes a difference. You must know that some candidates are much better for the world, some are not. But let’s focus on the candidate that will serve the community’s interest that will benefit you.

• Knowing the differences of where each candidate stands on is sues is vital, if an election is competitive, that means other people disagree about which option is better, and if you don’t know what each candidate, thinks and what their leanings are you’re at risk of voting for the wrong candidate out of ignorance

• Your disgust with the system as a reason for not voting can actually help the worse candidate to win.

• Your no vote counts is a vote for the worst candidate.

INSIght

Imagine that. If you thought things were bad, consider this, Donald Trump won the election because some Republican white males who didn’t agree with his politics, refused to vote for Hila ry, so they didn’t vote at all. On the other side, Democratic Black males didn’t vote for Hillary for many reasons, but what was said is that “A 1994 federal crime bill passed by former President Bill Clinton became a problem for her campaign. But what did the bill actually do?

At the time, violent crime was viewed as out of control in the US. The homicide rate had increased by 5% each year since 1987. By 1991 with 9.8 deaths per every 100,000 people, the communities were screaming for change. Many of the victims were young Blacks. Our communities were under attack from crack cocaine wreaking havoc, devastating the nation’s Black ur ban communities. Voters spoke out. Their state representatives and senators reported back to Washington. They wanted the vi olence stopped. Clinton’s Bill stopped it. But here’s the problem. It sounded great at the time. ‘You get two chances, your third is deadly.’ Most people did not realize the ramifications based on the collected statistical information that revealed the horren dous impact that law had on our communities until it was too late. Two past, minor drug arrests for carrying marijuana, could send you to prison for life on the third arrest. Simple as that. So, too many recreational MJ users found themselves in prison with hardcore criminals.

thE BattLE

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The Violent Crime Control and Law Enforcement Act, entailed an enormous $30bn package that was the largest crime-control bill in US history. In retrospection, opponents say the bill dec imated the Black communities and accelerated mass incarcera tion. Proponents say it contributed to the rapid decline in vio lent crime in the US that began in the mid-1990s. One of the provisions, included a “three strikes” mandatory life sentence for repeat offenders; and $9.7bn in funding for prisons, and an ex pansion of death penalty-eligible offenses. The criteria of the bill seemed to target Blacks, so its damage was taken personally by the Black community.

The details, the details, the details! So, we vote because we want to manifest change! We want ourselves, our families, our com munities’ circumstances to improve, advance and thrive. If you don’t like something, don’t walk away from the battle. Think of the election as a boxing ring and your life is on the line. If people knew that Trump was seeking to be a dictator would that have made a difference in how those people voted? Maybe, not. But what we know now is that Trump attempted to disrupt the peaceful transition of power from one president to the next. That he was willing, to lie, cheat and steal to remain in power. And worse, he encouraged his followers to engage in an attempt ed insurrection, a coup to overthrow the US government. Fol lowers were openly threatening the lives of VP Pence, and House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and others; followers who beat DC police officers, broke down doors and unlawfully entered the Capitol, ram sacked the private offices of targeted officials, stole U.S. property and personal items belonging to members of Congress.

t Stake in the 2022 erm Elections

to control of Congress, promising to protect abortion access. President Biden said in an event in mid-October that he would codify abortion rights if Demo crats retained and expand their control of Congress. Since the Supreme Court’s decision to overturn Roe v Wade was overturned, Republican controlled states have instituted partial or entire bans on abortion. The overturning of Roe v Wade allows state legislatures to ban or restrict abortion access. Howev er, Senator Lindsey Graham (R-SC) in troduced a nationwide ban on abortion in September. If implemented the ban would restrict abortion after 15 weeks with limited exceptions in the case of rape and incest. The midterm election results could decide the future of abor tion access in the United States.

According to a 2022 report by the Joint Economic Committee Democrats, Black Americans experience far worse economic conditions than white Amer icans and the population as a whole. Our unemployment rates are higher and our average household incomes are lower. The COVID 19 pandemic and potential economic recession have caused many to tighten and adjust their household budgets. According to a Sept. 2022 survey by The Grio and KFF (Kaiser Family Foundation), Black voters overwhelmingly list the economy as their biggest concern.

the federal government to clear po tential changes by state entities in the voting laws. This critical change to the Voting Rights Act cleared the way for states to institute new voter ID laws and other restrictions such as redistricting and the access or disappearance of new polling locations, mainly targeting black and minority voters.

abortion access

Abortion is a hot issue in this year’s midterm election. With the Supreme Court’s decision to overturn Roe v Wade, Democrats hope to hold on

Public Safety and Gun Control 2022 saw more than 350 mass shoot ings across the country. Over 45,000 people have died from gun violence and gun related injuries in the United States in the years since 2020. According to One Aim Illinois, at least 1363 people die from gun violence each year in Illi nois. Illinois also has the ninth highest rate of gun related homicides in the country. While Black Illinoisans, make up 14.6% of the population, they com prise of almost half of all firearm deaths in Illinois. Public safety and gun control are heavily debated topics in all levels of government. Funding for law enforce ment agencies, legislation on public safety and the debate on gun control measures have politicians and political parties fighting to maintain a “tough on crime” stance during the midterm elec tions. Results from the midterms could determine the future of gun control laws, funding for law enforcement and attempts to address systemic racism in the criminal justice system.

Inflation and the Economy

With inflation numbers at a 40 year high, Black voters say the economy is a key concern as they head to the polls.

The rising costs of gas and food have negatively impacted Americans causing financial hardships and pushing more people into poverty. As the nation continues to recover Black Americans struggle with pay inequities, high un employment rates and less generational wealth. Midterm election results will be key in determining if the elected officials in Washington do anything to address rising inflation and economic recovery efforts going forward.

the Fight for Civil Rights and Civil Liberties

The United States has seen radical changes as it relates to civil rights and liberties. With new Supreme Court appointments, the nation’s highest court now leans conservative. As a result, America has seen the overturning of Roe V Wade, more restrictive voting laws, redistricting, and a renewed interest on limiting access to informa tion as it pertains to what is taught in our nation’s public schools. LGBTQ+ rights, women’s rights, immigration rights, voting rights and the right to certain individual privacies have all been topics of great discourse and debate by the courts and government.

At the core of our democracy remains the right to vote. In 2013, the Supreme Court gutted a key piece of the historic 1965 Voting Rights Act which required

The next Congress will shape what American civil liber ties and rights will look like in the future.

healthcare and Public health

This year’s midterm elections could shift access to health care and reproduc tive care in many states. From the local level to the federal level, who the public elects to lead their states could affect Americans access to abortion, Afford able Care Act, implementation and Medicaid expansion. Access for the un insured and underinsured could be lim ited depending on who is elected on the local and federal level. With the nation still grappling with the public health emergencies, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, and monkeypox, access to preventative care is still a key issue in Congress and state legislatures. Black Americans must make their voices heard. There is much at stake in the November midterm elections and the results will shape the future of key issues, such as civil rights, voting rights, health care access, and more. The mid term results could also affect the 2024 presidential election, as the midterm elections could be a referendum on the Biden administration and where Ameri cans see the future of this country.

Danielle Sanders can be found on social media @ DanieSandersOfficial (IG/FB) and @DanieSand ers20 (Twitter)

the Race for the Illinois Supreme Court

he Fall voting season has arrived and the candi dates for the Illinois Su preme Court 2nd and 3rd Districts are winding up their campaigns. Residents of Illinois have heard slogans, seen commercials, and many have met candidates. On No vember 8th, Illinois residents will have the opportunity to take part in an election that can potentially change the tra jectory of the Illinois Supreme Court. The decisions and laws made by Illinois’s highest court could affect life as we know it. Each candidate has strategically outlined their platforms for communities across the state before it’s time to cast their ballots in the mid-term elections. The newly installed court justices will be responsible for the state’s trial courts and mak ing vital decisions involving women’s rights and public safety.

Lake, McHenry, DeKalb, Kane and Kendall counties, which make up the Second District, have Judge Elizabeth Rochford (D) and Mark Curran (R) vying for one of two seats on the Illinois Supreme Court. Judge Rochford has dedicated herself to upholding the mantra “justice for all” by establishing programs to make the legal system easier to manage for working families who represent themselves with legal matters. Deemed as a “champion for women” Judge Rochford stands for the rights of women everywhere. Republican candidate Mark Curran (R) is a litigator who earned the highest AV rating for ethics and ability. As the Attorney General’s Gang Crime Bureau Chief, a Con stitutional Law Professor, Senior Prosecutor and to date the longest serving Sheriff of Lake County, he lives a life of faith while diligently serving his community. In 2008, Curran boldly changed political parties because of fraud.

TAs a pillar of his community, he prides himself on leading with wisdom, principle, knowledge and understanding.

The candidates running for and representing the 3rd Dis trict, Judge Mary O’Brien (D) and Judge Michael Burke (R) are both accomplished judges. Judge O’Brien has served on the 3rd District Appellate Court for more than 19 years. She is a member of the Board of Directors Illinois Lawyers Assis tance Program where she’s served in every executive board po sition. She currently serves as the Vice-Chair for the Supreme Court Legislative Committee; she served as an educator at the Supreme Court Education Conference in 2020. Judge O’Brien chaired the Judiciary Committee on Criminal Law where she officiated over death penalty reform and fought to protect children from violent offenders and increased the statute of limitations for sexual assault against minors.

And last, but not least, Judge Michael Burke (R)Supreme Court. Justice Burke is dedicated to upholding the laws of Illinois. Before taking his seat on the bench of justice, Judge Burke served as an Assistant State’s Attorney in the DuPage County State’s Attorney’s Office for nine years. During his tenure with the State’s Attorney, he obtained the position of Felony Trial Supervisor and Chief of Special Prosecutions and in 1998 he was named Felony Prosecutor of the Year.

As polls begin to open, voters must open their eyes and minds to prepare themselves to make sound decisions. Voting for the best candidate for Illinois Supreme Court Justice is a necessity that residents across Illinois communities cannot take lightly. Each candidate will bring about changes that could negatively or positively affect life as we know it. So, before you cast your vote, be sure to delve thoroughly into each candidate’s histo ry and platform so you can make a well-informed decision.

Illinois Comptroller’s Race

The Il linois State Comp troller is one of the key races, with incumbent Susana Mendo za (D) seeking another term as she runs against candidate Shannon Tereisi (R). The Comptroller maintains the central fiscal accounts of the ordering payments into and out of the funds held by the Trea surer of Illinois, and sign paychecks or grants approvals to electronic payments made by the state to its creditors and employees.

Mendoza is running on some of her sig nature accomplishments since becoming Comptroller:

• Passed the 2017 Debt Transparency Act, over Governor Rauner’s veto, which requires state agencies to report monthly unpaid bills they are holding instead of annually.

• Pay down of Illinois’ bill backlog that led to the state’s first credit increase in over 20 years without using federal stimulus during the pandemic.

• Vendor payment wait time to get paid went from 10 months to under 30 days. The fastest payment cycle in over 20 years.

• In 2022, the State of Illinois’ payment cycle for the 2023 new fiscal year started with a payment cycle down to zero.

• Refinanced a large portion of Illinois backlog unpaid bills for $16.7 billion. From paying 12 percent interest on some of the debt, the state financed the bond deal at

three.5 percent, saving taxpayers $4-six bil lion and bringing relief to schools, social service providers and businesses.

• Federal COVID-19 loan was paid two years in advance, saving taxpayers $82 mil lion in interest payments.

Mendoza opposes combining the offices of Treasurer and Comptroller.

Candidate Shannon Teresi, a McHenry County auditor, has 12 years of experience in public service and over 15 years of experi ence in accounting. Teresi is running on her experience and accomplishments as a CPA, certified and certified fraud examiner:

• Performed numerous audits that resulted in removing state elected officials, employee termination, and criminal investigations in McHenry County.

• Saved time and taxpayer’s money by add ing electronic procedures to approve pay ments process in McHenry County.

• Implemented automation features to county payment purchasing and process to the county government.

Teresi’s intentions are to end the Madigan machine piggy bank, make the government restore accountability and financial trans parency and protect taxpayers.

Illinois treasurer’s Race

The treasurer serves as the chief investment and banking officer in Illinois. The treasurer is responsible for protecting the state’s portfolio and investing of monies and securities deposited into the state’s coffers.

Incumbent Mike Frerichs (D) is seeking a third term in office as Illinois Treasur er running against candidate Tom Demmer (R).

Mike Frerichs is running on some of his established accomplishments since becoming Illinois Treasurer:

• Returned monies to Illinois residents through the I-Cash program.

• Expanded access to higher education by improving the 529 College Savings Program to the top-rated program in the country.

• Helps seniors retire with the Secure Choice program.

• Helped families with loved ones with a disability with the ABLE program. Frerichs supports combining the offices of the Treasurer and Comptroller. Frerichs says he’s the second treasurer since Judy Baar Topinka to top $1.2 billion in interest gains on investments for the State of Illinois. In addition, Frerichs says his office has increased transparency with “The Vault,” an online portal that shares information on the state’s investments.

Tom Demmer is the State Representative for the 90th District and serves as the Deputy Minority Leader in the Illinois House of Representatives. Demmer is running for Illinois Treasurer to:

• Clean up corruption in Illinois.

• Cut middle-class taxes.

• Put Illinois families first.

• Push against taxing retirement income.

Demmer supports combining the offices of the Treasurer and Comptroller. He is also one of the candidates backed by billionaire Ken Griffin and says his focus is providing a Republican voice in a state controlled by Democrats.

the Race for Secretary of State

The two candidates differ on the subject of the Graduated Income Tax Amend ment which would have raised rates for higher income residents. Frerichs supported it in 2020 but the amendment was defeated. Demmer has accused Frerichs of supporting a tax on retirement under the Graduated Tax Amend ment. Frerichs has said he is opposed to a tax on retirement.

Illinois is one of a few states that has both a Treasurer and Comptroller to man age the state’s finances. Both candidates support combining the offices however the offices were separated after it was discovered that former auditor of Public Accounts Orville Hodge, embezzled more than $6 million from the state of Illinois between 1952 and 1956.

Rounding out the ballot is Libertarian candidate and solar industry consultant Preston Nelson.

ing and modernizing the office is a top priority.

The Secretary of State’s Office is the largest gov ernment office in the State of Illinois and has the most direct impact on the daily lives of Il linois residents. The office of the Secretary of State oversees 4000 employees and includes maintain ing archives, driver services organ donation and manag ing the State’s libraries.

The next Secretary of State has big shoes to fill when current Secretary of State Jesse White retires. The can didates, Republican Dan Brady, Libertarian Jon Stew art and Democrat Alexi Giannoulias each say improv

Alexi Giannoulias, (D) who as the 72nd IL Treasurer from 2007 - 2011 is endorsed by Jesse White and says his top priorities are modernizing the office of the Secretary of State, increasing voter registration by auto matically registering eligible voters and enhancing the library system.

Alexi also says he wants to create a comprehensive eth ics package to eliminate the occurrence of corruption and scandals that have plagued the state. To do this, he would create a lobbyist database, avoid conflicts of interest and prohibit elected officials from serving as lobbyist.

Dan Brady (R) is an IL Representative serving the 88th District in Central Illinois. Brady says his key

priorities are to develop local libraries, enhance driver’s education and increase organ and tissue donation. Brady also wants to streamline services at the Secretary of State by bringing the office into the digital era. Brady says he will work with technology experts and other in novators to enhance the current technology. Addition ally, fully staffing the facilities and cross training the employees to help the residents will reduce wait times and protect personal data. These added measures will help the office be more efficient.

Jon Stewart, (L)

New and unfamiliar to the race is former wrestler and car dealer, Jon Stewart. Not much is known about the candidate who does not have a website. Stewart cur rently has a YouTube page and campaign bio. Theresa Horton is a contributing writer for the Chi cago News Weekly. Find her on Instagram @passion ateresources and Twitter @passion_sources.

llinois Constitution: a Workers’ Right amendment and What It Means

Illinois attorney general Race

Attorney General Kwame Raoul And Republican Opponent Tom DeVore Clash Over Criminal Justice Reform Ahead Of Midterm Elections

Therace to be Illinois’ next Attorney General is rarely the topic of dis cussion during midterm elections. But with the Safe-T Act changing the legal landscape in Illinois, both Demo cratic and Republican candidates Kwame Raoul and Tom DeVore, have different views on criminal justice reform.

The massive Illinois Safe-T Act is a controversial criminal justice reform bill that critics call the “Purge Law.” The reform bill goes into effect in 2023 and will end cash bail. A summary of the bill states, “detention shall only be imposed if it’s determined that the defendant poses a clear and present threat.”

Tom DeVore, the Republican candidate, says this bill is the opposite of public safety. DeVore alleges the Safe-T Act will allow defendants charged with violent crimes to be released back into the com munity within hours of arrest. DeVore also believes the law will challenge prosecu tors to prove that accused criminals are dangerous to the public or are at high risk of fleeing to avoid prosecution. Another concern for Tom DeVore is how the state will get criminals back to court once cash bail is abolished.

Attorney General Kwame Raoul worked with the Black Caucus to draft the Safe-T Act. Members of the Illinois Legislative Black Caucus accuse DeVore and other Republicans of wanting to keep the status quo which keeps people of color in jail while wealthy criminals post bail.

Raoul acknowledges that the language in the bill needs clarification but agrees that the law was written to protect poor defen

dants. “Money should not be the deter mining factor,” says Raoul. “A high-rank ing gang member that is a threat to public safety shouldn’t be able to make bail and be back out on the streets. So, we can have a conversation to look at the language in the SAFE-T Act to ensure there are no loopholes.”

Tom DeVore, 53, rose through the ranks of the Republican Party during the COVID-19 pandemic. He’s filed several lawsuits on behalf of Republican legis lators who opposed Gov. J.B Pritzker’s COVID mandates. DeVore has been practicing law since 2011. His experience as an elected official is two years on the Bond County Board.

During a virtual forum hosted by the Illinois Press Media Editors, DeVore said people across the state are “frustrated” with politicians making decisions that don’t make any sense to them.”

Kwame Raoul, 58, is a former Cook County prosecutor from Chicago. He succeeded Barack Obama in the Illinois Senate before being elected to replace the retiring Attorney General Lisa Madigan in 2019.

In a recent interview, Raoul said his “greatest fear” is Tom DeVore being elected to the attorney general’s office. “He would abuse the resources of serving in that capacity the same way he has abused the courts resources with COVID-related litigation,” says Raoul.

Raoul also points to his opponent’s unsuccessful lawsuits to reflect his lack of qualifications. But DeVore says despite his wins or losses, his willingness to challenge the governor signifies his devotion to protecting the people.

on November 1, Illinois voters will have the opportunity to weigh in on a constitutional amendment that will bolster collective bargaining rights in the State of Illinois. Amendment 1, also referred to as the Workers’ Right Amendment, is a ballot measure that will establish a consti tutional right for members of the Illinois workforce to organize and bargain collec tively via union representatives.

This bill was sponsored by State Rep resentative Marcus Evans (D-33) who believes that “this collective bargaining rights bill will provide an extra layer of protection for Illinois workers.” The passing of this legis lation would bold ly categorize Illinois as a pro union state, which means that the Illinois workforce will have greater oppor tunities to join their workplace’s union and pay dues. Repre sentative Evans stated that “the constitution is a lengthier process to change and imple menting these changes will provide long-term protection for our workforce.”

There are only two other states that have amended their con stitutions with such an amendment – Hawaii and Missouri. Representative Evans proposed amend ment will take the Illinois law a step further by banning right-to-work laws. Right-to-work laws refer to state laws that prohibit union agreements between em ployers and labor unions which require employees who are not union members to contribute to the costs of union repre

sentation. Historically, Black Americans have suffered from earning lower wag es for doing the same type and amount of work in states all across the country. Being a member of a union is one way to advocate and fight for fair and living wages.

If Amendment 1 is passed, the law will allow employers to require workers to pay dues to the labor union as a condi tion of employment. Dr. Robert Bruno, a labor professor at the University of Illinois, noted that “when you protect worker rights, you actually attract peo ple into that workplace. That’s a way to address the workforce need coming out of COVID [and also a way] to bring inflation down to really grow an economy from the middle out.”

Representative Evans proposed amendment will take the Illinois law a step further by banning right-to-work laws. Right-to-work laws refer to state laws that prohibit union agreements between employers and labor unions which require employees who are not union members to con tribute to the costs of union representation.

Amendment 1 has widespread support across the state in cluding the support of Governor JB Pritz ker, the Associated Fire Fighters, Chicago Teachers Union and SEIU Healthcare Il linois & Indiana, to name a few. According to the Center for Eco nomic and Policy Re search, “Black workers are more likely than workers of any other race to be unionized. This has been true since at least the early 1970s.” Unions have helped Black Amer icans to fight against racial inequality and race based wage gaps. Amendment 1 will be good for Illinois and is a welcomed protective measure for Black Illinoisan’s who are members of the workforce. In order to pass, the Amendment will re quire three-fifths (60%) of those voting

the Race for governor

Three candidates are on the ballot in Nov. for the office of Governor. Incumbent J.B. Pritzker (D), Darren Bailey (R), and Scott Schluter (L). This is a contentious and high-profile race with abor tion rights, crime and the Illinois economy as key issues. Pritzker is running for a second term in office and has repeatedly said that protecting abortion access in Illinois is a top priority. Endorsed by Donald Trump, Darren Bailey has said he supports a complete ban on abortion in the state, even in the case of rape and incest but has repeatedly dodged or deflected when asked directly by reporters or in recent debates. Diesel mechanic Scott Schluter has not made his stance on abortion known.

Darren Bailey has criticized and focused on the Pritz ker administration’s handling of crime, often referencing Chicago as a “hellhole.” He is an opponent of the Illinois Safe-T Act, which Pritzker signed into law. In a recent de bate, Bailey suggested crime in the city was due to an in crease in undocumented immigrants. Libertarian candidate Scott Schluter says fixing a broken system is a priority. Ac cording to his website, he supports the decriminalization of all drugs and the implementation of the Safe-T Act.

While Illinoisans continue to struggle with rising in flation and higher prices for goods and services, Illinois

gubernatorial candidates have different views on im proving the economy. Darren Bailey says executive or ders in the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic col lapsed the economy in Illinois. He sued JB Pritzker and his administration over the stay-at-home orders. He says he intends to cut spending and reprioritize spending. Pritzker touts his record in office as it pertains to the Illinois economy. During his first term in office Pritzker navigated the state’s response to COVID-19, raised the minimum wage

and legalized the use of recreational marijuana. Since he took office in 2019, he cut the state’s backlog by passing a balanced budget each year and achieved six credit upgrades for the state of Illinois. Earlier in the summer, Pritzker froze a proposed gas tax hike and suspended the grocery tax to quell rising inflation as part of the Illinois Family Relief Plan. Libertarian Scott Schluter believes ending wasteful spending and repealing the Illinois income tax are key in freeing the Illinois economy.

Akey race in Illinois is the U.S. Senate race, with the outcome affecting the balance of power in Congress. Incumbent Tam my Duckworth (D) faces Kelly Salvi (R) in the midterm elections. The state senator is respon sible for acting on behalf of the state to ensure that cit izens voices are heard and to fight for legislation that acts in their constituent’s best interest. Key issues in a Senate race include abortion, gun control and inflation.

Senator tammy Duckworth (D)

Tammy Duckworth has served as US senator repre senting Illinois since 2017. Duckworth says the econ omy is a top priority. As Senator she wants to pass legislation to bring down the cost of life’s essentials. This includes banning gas price gouging, capping the cost of insulin and other lifesaving medications.

Duckworth is also opposed to Senator Lindsey Gra ham’s legislation to establish a nationwide abortion ban. She says “I refuse to let my daughters grow up in a world with fewer rights than I had. I will contin ue to do everything in my power to prevent this na tionwide ban on basic health care that explicitly goes against what the vast majority of Americans want.”

Duckworth is also an advocate of criminal justice reform. She has voted in favor of reducing mass in carceration and recidivism rates. In addition, she supports common sense gun laws with expand ed background checks and a ban on assault rifles.

Kathy Salvi (R)

ing to her website Salvi believes Biden’s economic policies are wasteful. She says the best way to grow the economy is through “small, limited govern ment that control spend ing, promotes growth and doesn’t overburden citizens with taxes and regulations.”

Parish 5157 S. McVicker Ave.

St Agatha Catholic Parish 3151 W. Douglas Bv.

Rudy Lozano Branch Library 1805 S. Loomis St.

Super Site Clark & Lake 191 N. Clark

Early Voting

Park Library 1605 N. Troy St.

Park Field House 1501 W. Randolph St.

West Side Learning Center 4624 W. Madison St.

Amundsen Park 6200 W. Bloomingdale Ave.

Kilbourn Park 3501 N. Kilbourn Ave.

Portage Cragin Library 5108 W. Belmont Ave.

Bucktown-Wicker Park Library 1701 N. Milwaukee Ave.

American Indian Center 3401 W. Ainslie St.

UIC Student Center 750 S. Halsted St.

Northeastern Il University El Centro 3390 N. Avondale Ave.

West Belmont Library 3104 N. Narragansett Ave.

West Chicago Library 4856 W. Chicago Ave.

Hiawatha Park 8029 W. Forest Preserve Dr.

North Park Village Admin Bldg 5801 N. Pulaski Rd.

Budlong Woods Library 5630 N. Lincoln Ave.

Roden Library 6083 N. Northwest Hw.

Maggie Daley Park 337 E. Randolph St.

43 Lincoln Park Branch Library 1150 W. Fullerton Ave.

Merlo Library 644 W. Belmont Ave.

45 Ho Chunk Nation 4732 N. Milwaukee Ave.

Truman College 1145 W. Wilson Ave.

Conrad Sulzer Library 4455 N. Lincoln Ave.

Broadway Armory 5917 N. Broadway

Willye B White Park 1610 W. Howard St.

Northtown Library 6800 N. Western Ave.

Kathy Salvi is an attorney and former Lake County Public Defender. She has never held public office but ran for US Senate in 1996 and Illinois Secretary of State in 1998. She says she’s running to bring balance to Congress. She believes having two Democratic sen ators representing the state of Illinois has done dam age to families and businesses in the state. Her priori ties include growing the economy, securing the border fighting crime and restricting abortion access. Accord

Salvi also says she stands with police and believes rising crime is due to “rad ical and progressive” pros ecutors who do not hold criminals accountable. She supports more police fund ing as well and in a recent WTTW/WBEZ televised debate, she refused to say if she legislation to ban as sault rifles or sensible gun laws. Salvi supports a ban on abortion but refuses to say if she supports a complete ban on abortion or she believes in exceptions such as rape and incest. In the same WTTW/WBEZ debate, she said “I believe the decision that was made this summer is good because it took the decision of abor tion out of the hands of an activist court and put it in the hands of the state’s duly elected representatives.”

Ignorance is not bliss. Knowing the candidate is paramount in the voting process. It’s difficult, I know, but I appeal to our youth because the future belongs to you.

Look, you can complain about the Baby Boomers, all you want, but we looked around us, we stood up, sat down, marched, yes, we took to the streets and descended upon America, not without threats from authorities, but our freedom was worth it. We made them hear us, see us and respond to us. My point—We did not sit around and pontificate, we worked hard to be informed. Armed with information, we dis cussed, researched and made plans with intended outcomes, we organized, and we made sure that we were prepared for battle. Like gladiators we knew sometimes we would fight as teams, but most of the time the battles where it mattered most, were one on one. So after, the victory of the Civil Rights Movement, we walked through the doors of Corporate America proud and ready, sporting our beautifully perfectly round Afros, and our unique coiffed braids. We were happy, excited to finally be amongst those that were leading the world rather than being forced to be scavengers. We knew that Affirmative Action had forced their hand to consider us. Prior to that, our resumes were just tossed in the trash and never read.

thE ChaLLENgE

Affirmative action was a set of policies and practices established by the government that sought to assure the inclusion Blacks based on their qualifications and abilities to prevent the racist practice of businesses not hiring Blacks. And if you think it was given to us. You are mistaken.

Thank goodness our parents prepared us by telling us that we had to be 10 times better than our white counterparts competing for the same position. And so, we had prepared. And those of us that were hired were the top of our classes, smart, brilliant, and ready. Well, we walked through those doors of Corporate America fortified with the wisdom our parents had poured into us. ‘Get your education because they can not take that from you. Note: Knowledge is king. Knowledge is power. So, once we reached the other side with our smiling faces, we found it to be nothing nice. White America was not happy to see us. They harassed us, fired us for wearing Afros, or braids and or Headwraps in the style of Erykah Badu. Yes!, But we didn’t stop. We fought harder legally, socially, politically, and we leaned in to win.

So today when I see you beautifully self-expressed sporting your glorious crown of kinky, curly hair, braids, earrings, etc., authentically expressed, I am filled with pride knowing that I was a part of that counterculture revolutionary movement to trans form social change and what it looked like.

And we did. Young People, I say, ‘if you want what you want and it doesn’t look like what’s good for you, then you better do what it takes to get it. Voting is a start. You’ve got to understand the three branches of government, Legislative, Executive and Judi ciary. Know what they do and how they work together to balance the power.

thE RESPONSIBILItY

But dig this, too many of you don’t understand that. I know this because you com plained that President Barack Obama didn’t do anything for Black people. Truth, is that on the day of his inauguration the Republican arm of the legislative branch met and vowed to not pass any of his proposed legislation. They made a pack to block ev erything the Black President put before them. Why? Because they do not like the fun damental idea of taking any direction from a Black man. That’s right. They stopped everything. They prevented him from appointing Supreme Court Judges. He was however able to push the ‘Affordable Care Plan,’ AKA the Obama Care Act through because the American people demanded it. This is my final note to you. Know your power—Government by the people, of the people for the people. Remember political races are the boxing ring and the candidates battle in the ring, but we have to prepare them for the battle before they get inside the ring. Think like the stealth finely tuned athlete Muhammad Ali was. Intelligent in and out of the ring. He had strategies to beat his opponents. He didn’t fight everyone the same. When you choose your Candidate, you enter the ring with him or her. Be prepared.

• Knowing the candidate is step one,

• Step two: Provide your list of demands (as organized communities)

• Step three: vote them into office

• Step four: Make sure they deliver on their promises and let them know if you’re satisfied or not.

• Step Five: Keep them abreast of their performance rating by the community

• Step Six: Let them know they will not be reelected if they do not deliver on their promises that’s it. . . . Prepare. Vote.

Why We Must Vote

The Black vote will play a pivotal role in the Novem ber 2022 midterm elections.

According to an August 2022 Pew Research study, there are 32.7 million registered Black voters in the US. Black Americans are projected to ac count for 13.6% of the vote in November with Texas, Georgia, Florida, New York, California, North Carolina, Maryland, and Illinois accounting for 52% of eligible

Back voters in the United States. These statistics show our voting power if we choose to exercise it.

These are perilous times. Over the last few years, we have seen a continued erosion of our civil rights through redistricting, more restrictive voting laws, the end of Roe v Wade, and the continued pushback of teaching a more accurate and inclusive American history in classrooms. The midterm elections in Novem ber are critical and will decide how America moves forward as a democracy. Black Chicagoans must come out in record numbers to vote. There is much at stake in Illinois in this election. The entire staff at Chicago News Weekly creat ed this nonpartisan election guide for the midterm elections. This guide serves as a snapshot of key races in Illinois, with an impartial look at each candidate and those important races. We hope that readers use this guide as a tool to make the best decision when voting this November.

With a record number of eligible Black voters, it is time to harness our voting power and make our opinions known to those who represent us on the munic ipal, state, and federal levels. It is our duty and responsibility to vote for those who have our community’s best interest in mind.

I challenge each of you to vote and encourage your friends and families to vote. Share this informational election guide with any eligible voter. Let us make our voices heard in this election.

The future of our democracy is at stake.

@Daniesandersofficial (IG & FB)

@DanieSanders20 (twitter)

thE RaCE tO REPLaCE Congressman Bobby Rush

community policing will help reduce gun violence. He also supports a federal gun tracing system. Jack son believes supporting the growth of small businesses and industries will create and sustain well-paying jobs and will help grow the economy.

the Race for Cook County Clerk

For the first time in nearly 30 years,

Illinois’s 1st District will elect a new representative in the November midterms. So change is afoot. And what that change looks like depends on who wins the race. Jonathan Jackson and Eric Carlson were chosen by voters as the Democratic and Republican picks for the 1st District but where do the candidates stand on the issues?

Eric Carlson (R)

A former construction worker and Army veteran Eric Carlson describes himself as a “Constitutional Conserva tive”. According to his website, Carlson is focused on crime, the economy, criminal justice reform, education, and more. His stance on key issues includes supporting law enforce ment with increased budgets and training, cutting inflation by limiting spending by the federal government, increasing the incomes of Americans by limiting legal immigration, and a return to energy independence.

Carlson says he also wants to dismantle teacher unions and ban Critical Race Theory (CRT) taught in schools. He is an opponent of the Affordable Care Act and believes the market and competition should set prices for medical care and services. He believes the federal government has no place in health care decisions. Carlson goes into detail about his views via his YouTube channel. He is pro-life and says abortion is not a priority issue as he thinks about the future of the country.

His past recently came into question after the Chicago Tribune reported that he was convicted and sentenced to 12 years in prison for criminal sexual assault in 1995. He served six years. Carlson addressed his conviction in a “YouTube” Video in January of this year. He says he was wrongfully convicted, and the encounter was consensual. He continues saying he believes his victim was mentally unstable and the experience ruined his life. He also says this experience is one of the reasons the criminal justice system needs reform.

Jonathan Jackson (D)

Democratic candidate Jonathan Jackson secured his party’s nomination in June with 28% of the vote. An accomplished businessperson and educator, Jackson says fighting for justice and fairness is in his DNA as the son of civil rights leader Reverend Jesse Jackson, Sr. If elected, Jackson states his priorities to include addressing violent crime, increasing affordable housing, improving education, protecting voters rights and increasing equitable access to health care.

Jackson supports legislation to end unlawful access to guns and says increased funding for youth programs and better

Improving early childhood education is also a top prior ity for Jackson who believes it plays a vital role in the child’s brain development. He is also a staunch sup porter of student aid reform for college students. Jack son wants to create more equitable access to health care as well. He supports the Affordable Care Act and vows to support funding for community health centers in underserved communities. He has also said that he supports a woman’s right to choose.

The election of the IL 1st District Representative is an other important race in this year’s midterms as it affects the balance of power in the U.S. Congress. The next representa tive for the Illinois 1st District will represent a majority-mi nority district. Since 1929, the 1st District has always been represented by an African American. The district is 51.3% Black, 40.6% white, and 9.8% Hispanic in population.

After redistricting in 2020, the 1st district includes most of the South Side and cook County, including suburban com munities, Midlothian, Posen, Robbins, Blue Island, Lem ont, Oak Forest, Orland Park, Crestwood, and Beverly. The district also extends to areas of Will and Kankakee County.

tori hutchinson and Babette Peyton are also running for Illinois 1st District as Independent Candidates. Tori Hutchinson, JD is an Educator, with more than 2 de cades on the front lines of the urban public education sys tem, running for Congress. Tori says that her commitment is to improve the community. She holds a Juris Doctorate and is eager to craft practical legislation that will actually benefit the people of Illinois and ease the burden imposed upon everyday people by the current elitist leadership. For her platform details go to https://www.torinicholson4con gress.com

Babette Peyton is a native Chicagoan and has been an active member of the African American community. Her platform is more philosophical than clear about how she proposes to achieve those pillars she promotes like work ing together to bring positive change to our communities and the city at large. She focuses on the areas of education, medical and health support and availability; commerce, Industrial development, tourism, transportation; big and small business opportunities to be shared by all. Peyton was injured during a military training exercise and suffered a stroke yielding her wheelchair-bound. She says that the fact that her circumstances haven’t stopped her is testimony to her resilience and will fight to make Chicago inclusive for the change needed. For more information check her web site: https://babettepeytonforcongress.com/

The Cook Coun ty Dlerk manages suburban cook Coun ty elections, oversees the countywide sys tems for marriage, birth, and death cer tificates, and manages economic disclosure and campaign finance report filings.

Incumbent Democratic Karen A. Yar brough is serving her third year as Cook County Clerk. During her first term, Yar brough assumed full implementation of the Recorder of Deeds office, upgraded the pro cess for Cook County voters and new voter registration system, e-poll books and voting equipment, access to the ballot for pre-trial detainees, and provided 12 languages on the ballot.

Republican Tony Peraica is an attorney who has been a member of the County Board of Commissioners for two terms and has run for Cook County Board President and Cook County State’s Attorney. Peraica is running to improve the quality of service to residents and comply with the Shakman consent de cree. Peraica wants to take politics out of the clerk’s office. Peraica says Yarbrough has run the clerk’s office inefficiently. Peraica says the clerk’s office needs to lower operations costs, upgrade customer service and reduce the long wait to obtain documentation and certified records.

Libertarian Joseph Schreiner is a patent agent and translator with over 40 years of experience in information technology, statistics, medical research, teaching and technical support in the corporate, public, consulting, academic and entrepreneurial sectors. If elected, Schreiner says he will en sure the Cook County clerk’s office runs fair and efficiently and end the Democratic/Re publican COVID war on the Cook County people. Schreiner says for the past 2-3 years, both parties have destroyed small business es, bankrupted hard-working citizens, and outlawed freedom of speech. Schreiner con tinues to oppose all lockdowns, vaccine, and mask mandates.

Cook County Board of Commissioners President

The Cook County Board of Commis sioners is made up of 17 commis sioners elected by their district and a President who is elected by the county. The board is responsible for setting pol icies and laws regarding property, public health services, public safety, and the maintenance of highways. Voters in Cook County have a choice between Incumbent President Toni Pre ckwinkle (D) or her opponent Bob Fioretti (R).

President Preckwinkle has held the position of board president since 2010. As the first Black woman to be elected to office, President Preckwinkle used the Affordable Care Act to create CountyCare, a managed care program for Medicaid-eligible residents. According to her website, during her adminis tration, she worked with the County’s public safety stakeholders toward the goals of safely reducing the population of the Cook County Jail and Cook County Juvenile Temporary Detention Center while preserving public safe ty, reducing recidivism, and promoting fair and equitable access to justice.

Promoting equity, specifically racial equity, has been a central principle of President Preckwinkle’s leadership. In Nov. 2018, the Office of the president released the Cook County Policy Roadmap: Five-Year Strategic Plan for Of fices Under the President to guide her administration’s policy and equity work. Her opponent Bob Fioretti is an attorney and former two-term Alderman. He says he’s running because crime in Cook County is at an all-time high. He believes Toni Preckwinkle is the chief architect of failed policies that have been ineffective in improving public safety. He wants to hire more police officers and does not believe in redirecting funds away from policing. In addition, he believes spending in Cook County is out of control. He says as Cook County Board President, he will focus on a reduction in Texas economic development and violence prevention efforts.

Race for the Cook County treasurer and the Black Vote

TheState of Illinois Cook County Treasurer is responsible for oversee ing the second-largest tax collection and dispersing of taxes to residents of Illinois. Their responsibilities also extend to in vesting property tax funds in communities. As the votes come in, voters of color have a vital de cision to make during this election. Making the wrong choice could fuel disinvestment in communities that are home to Black and Latino residents which could possibly broaden the racial wealth divide. Lack of funding in minority communities will continue the cycle of me diocre resources for education, and the loss of homes to residing community members.

Maria Pappas (D) is running for reelection. Since 1998, Pappas has held this po sition for the state. During her term, she initiated Cook County’s Debt Disclosure Ordinance which mandates taxing districts to publicly report their finances, in cluding long-term debt. Peter Kopsaftis (R) is the Republican candidate. His polit ical experience ranges from Chairman/Committeeman of the Barrington Township Republican Organization and was the former Candidate for the 8th U.S. Con gressional District. As a candidate, he plans to make the Treasurer’s Office accessi ble to schedule town halls and forums to advocate for issues that are at the fore front of the community. Candidate Michael Murphy (L) who advanced from the Libertarian Party in June, is also running for the Cook County Treasurer position. Early voting is underway, and Nov. 8 is the General Election date. It is imperative for people of color to research each candidate and make a conscious and well-informed choice during this year’s election. Life-altering decisions are at the heart of these rac es, and people of color will be affected the most. Voting is a privilege. It is right that was given to many and earned for others. Your voice matters. Your vote matters.

Cannabis CornerVoters and Cannabis

be? Are candidates setting their campaign trails ablaze with cannabis conversations? Can voters be confident they understand where candidates stand on expunge ment, federal legalization, banking, and social equity bills that protect Illinois public housing residents for example?

“The Coalition is not satisfied with the way that political candidates express their intentions and un derstanding. There are limited voter guides specific to cannabis, and those that do exist don’t often take into account a candidate’s full history,” shared Peter Con tos, Deputy Director, Cannabis Equity IL Coalition. Voters can learn about candidates through organiza tions like The Marijuana Policy Project. Their released voter’s guide to governor’s races and policy reform ahead of midterm elections. Texas NORML’s guide is based on candidate survey responses to five cannabis questions giving voters a unique snapshot of the legis lative landscape. Contos implores voters to reach out directly to elected officials and their challengers to ask them about cannabis, drug policy, and reforming the legal system more broadly.

“Election season is also important because we vote for judges who hold the power over our future in many different ways,” says Contos.

Americans overwhelmingly support cannabis legaliza tion but it’s still federal ly illegal. Public support doesn’t mean policies immediately shift. A recent Mon mouth University Poll found nearly two-thirds (68%) of Americans agree with legalizing small amounts of recreational marijuana. Legalization has the highest support among people under the age of 35.

The explosive shift in support is proof America is ready for federal reform. Will support translate over to voting for cannabis friendly candidates? Five states have measures on their ballots this year. Arkansas, Maryland, Missouri, North Dakota and South Dakota will be vot ing on recreational marijuana for 21 and older. Okla homa will be voting in March of 2023, those that were advocating for a ballot measure were unable to meet the deadline to get on the November ballot.

Public support has also been growing for fringe leg islation like the S.A.F.E. Banking Act. Dissolving the barriers of banking positively benefits social equity en trepreneurs as well as communities where retailers are forced to operate in all cash.

In Illinois last week’s Gubernatorial debate Governor Pritzer and Senator Bailey took shots at each other’s ap proaches on balancing the budget, crime, health and corruption. For voters who are passionate about pot, November 8th is an opportunity to create a legislative landscape favorable for cannabis equity.

Smoke the Vote, a site operated by NORML gave Bai ley an F for his votes against cannabis. In 2019 he did support Ashley’s Law 2.0 which broadened administra tion and use of medical cannabis in schools but voted no on legalization of recreational use. Bailey’s conser vative views on cannabis are not uncommon in Illi nois, many lawmakers are cautious, hesitant but mixed approaches on cannabis are confusing and have direct

employment and economic impacts.

When asked about re-criminalization Bailey respond ed “that’s not on my priority list”. Even if reversing legal recreational cannabis isn’t on his list one could imagine the lack of energy and support for the industry and associated equity agendas. This is the energy that voters need to be aware of when casting bal lots this election season. Those wishing to see an equitable industry must be diligent in both educating elected officials and helping organize supporters to communicate priori ty policies for cannabis social equity.

“Listening to Governor Pritkzer’s responses about the Illinois cannabis industry was very frustrating” said Kiana Hughes, Legislative Co-Chair and Founding Board Member of Chicago NORML, “I hear firsthand how social equity applicants are struggling to raise capital and start making money from their businesses, while the Governor is on TV heralding the greatness of the IL social equity program.” Governor Pritzker has been under fire for months for the handling of social equity licensing. With industry eyes on the Illinois market, incumbents and challenger positions on intersecting issues should help illuminate the path that lies ahead for Black businesses to get their fair shot at the billion dollar industry.

Entrepreneurs are frustrated with the slow roll out and while the state of Illinois can boast about $1.9 billion in sales, zero of those dollars came from a Black operator.

“We need to support one agency that works every day to ensure a fair and equitable can nabis industry in Illinois” shared Hughes. But are voters as informed as they could

Both Huges and Contos are leaders who agree that candidates should be more vocal about their cannabis equity agendas and the public should be just as vocal about theirs too.

Let’s hope voters continue to put pressure on elected officials at all levels of government after November 8th.

Over the last few years everyday people, along with the news media, have worn bare the phrase, “voter apathy.” It has remained part of the English lexicon be cause it is a handy way to describe low voter turnout, as well as pundits being wrong with their predictions about certain races of candidates.

The phrase was fueled by the reality that we could look at the pathetically low voter participation in cer tain parts of the city.

Political forecasters offered a bevy of reasons for folks

the aisle, refuse to give so many in our community anything other than short shrift. Oh sure, they all make their rounds to Black churches on Sundays lead ing up to the election. If you are Black, ask yourself how many other times you see them hanging out in our parts of town.

Ask yourself that when there are at least 500,000 Black people on the South Side, why do candidates only go to two or three churches, and believe they are reaching those tens of thousands of voters? It has mor phed into some kind of show, especially on the local level, with a candidate rushing from church to church

no one who is rooted in or deeply familiar with our community.

staying home; however, they repeatedly failed to bring up one that we know is true. Let’s call it ‘candidate apathy.’

One need not be a political science graduate to un derstand the basic premise of the process, candidates promise a certain improvement or introduction to a particular program to a community in exchange for their vote. It is a ‘tit-for-tat’ as old as elections. We have been led to believe that voter apathy is at the root of our government problems; after all, the people we do vote for wind up in office running the government

on a Sunday.

one of the most egregious facts is that they spend tens of thousands of

that

We have credibility with our readers because we know how to speak to them. Too many times when state candidates or those running for Congress do advertise with us, they are using the same wording that they would for an ad running in Kenilworth, New Jersey. We don’t bend over backward, like one daily newspa per, to focus on crime and the negative aspects of our community. We also have a loyal readership. To date, no one has ever explained to me why white media outlets should have campaign ads, and Black outlets shouldn’t. If that isn’t the case, the folks running for office sure make it seem that way.

but they refuse to infuse significant dollars into Black media outlets. The advertising buys they place with us can only be described as pathetic.

The premise about reaching most voters at church is a myth. Even cursory research will tell you that there are far more folks at home at 11 a.m. on Sundays than are in church.

How often do we see candidates for public office at a local school council meeting or a high school basket ball game?

One of the most egregious facts is that they spend tens of thousands of dollars on television commercials that put people to sleep, but they refuse to infuse sig

It is not unusual for our audience to reach out to us seeking our opinions on partic ular candidates and incumbents. When the candidates, as well as incumbents, refuse to meet with our editorial boards or participate in one-onone interviews, it makes it tough to give an informed perspective.

Conversely, they have no problem having one of their minions call our respective outlets asking for an endorsement. It is the height of hypocrisy. You won’t give us your money by advertising in our papers, but you want the credibility and cache that comes with our name via an endorsement. I don’t know how candi dates and incumbents can be any more apathetic.

the Race for the 2nd IL Congressional District

Incumbent Robin Kelly (D) faces Thomas Lynch (R) in the Illinois 2nd Con gressional District race. The 2nd Congressional District includes southern Cook County, Eastern Will County, Kankakee County, and Chicago’s Far Southeast side. Incumbent Robin Kelly has represented the second district since 2013. Having worked at all levels of government, Kelly believes her record more than qualifies her to retain her congressional seat. Economic recovery from the pandemic, rising inflation, and passing common sense gun legislation are her top priorities if reelected as congresswoman. According to her website, Kelly authored The Kelly Report on Gun Violence in America and helped organize the Gun Violence Prevention Sit-In in Congress for stronger gun safety laws. Her opponent Thomas Lynch is a meat and poultry inspector who says there’s a disconnect between Washington and the average American. His priorities if elect ed include focusing on the war on crime by providing more funding for law en forcement agencies along with training and education and improving the econ omy. He says he wants “to remove burdensome and unnecessary regulations and continue Trump era deregulation strategies.” According to his website, Lynch would also ban critical race theory and abolish the Department of Education entirely.

the Race to Protect and Serve Cook County

The Cook County Sheriff is responsible for providing security and services to county and court facilities, protecting and servicing the citizens of Cook County, administering the Cook County Jail, and directing over 6,700 deputies, officers, and civilians who perform several tasks within the criminal justice system. Incumbent Thomas J. Dart (D) is seeking a fifth term as Cook County Sheriff run ning against Lupe Aguirre (R) and Brad Sandefur (L).

Dart has served as Sheriff of Cook County since 2006, where he expanded Sheriff’s police to be a key player in combating violence in Chicago, reforming the Cook County Jail to address joblessness, men tal illness, and substance abuse. Dart is focused on improving the justice system, keeping communi ties safe, increasing police training, and supplying access to mental health treatment. In 2021, Dart started the co-responder program that connects mental health professionals with police officers vir tually to help someone during a mental health crisis.

Lupe Aguirre has been a police officer for over 12 years and has a private firm. His vision as Cook Coun

Rep. Danny Davis unopposed in the Midterm Elections

this year’s midterms are crucial to who main tains control of Congress. In the House of Rep resentatives, all 435 seats are up for election. Democrats currently hold a 220-212 majority in the House. To gain a majority, Re publicans need to gain 5 seats in the house to win control. Incum bent Rep. Danny Davis of the Il linois 7th district runs unopposed in this year’s midterm election.

The Illinois 7th District covers Chicago’s Central-South-West Side, as well as Central Cook County communities, Oak Park, Westchester, Broadview Bellwood, Maywood, Forest Park, and LaGrange Park. Da vis has represented the IL 7th District since 1996 and boasts a long record of leadership and legislation. He says there are many pressing issues fac ing voters including domestic terrorism, crime, and a lack of equity in housing, health care, and education. As Congressman he plans to contin ue to use his office to develop and pass legislation addressing these issues.

ty Sheriff is to advance communi ty policing and re store public trust. Agu irre says he will restore several pro grams that were elimi nated by Dart and make sure that disinvested com munities receive resources and deputies have access to training in crisis intervention and de-escalation tactics. Aguirre wants to provide better outcomes for those in custody by ensuring proper medical evalu ation, medication access, mental health programs, and services and communicating with local medi cal providers to put mutual aid resources in place.

Brad Sandefur, a 32-year veteran of the Sheriff’s depart ment and supervisor for 25 years, wants to put enforce

ment back into law enforcement. Sandefur’s concern is the current administration is putting alleged criminals back on the street with a low or no bond and electronic monitor. Sandefur says someone with no law enforce ment experience runs the current Sheriff’s department and the Cook County Jail has become the largest mental health facility in the country due to the closing of sever al mental facilities. Sandefur wants to take politics and favoritism out of the Sheriff’s department and provide safety for communities, businesses, and police officers.