On the anniversary of the assassination of the great civil leader, Martin Luther King Jr., Chicago finally elected a People’s Mayor. Former teacher and union organizer, Brandon Johnson has been elected to be the new mayor of Chicago. The mayoral race came down to former Chicago Public Schools CEO Paul Vallas and Johnson.
The race for mayor was a close call all throughout election day April 4. With 99% of votes tallied Johnson won the election with 51.42% leaving Vallas with 48.58% of the votes.
The People’s Mayor for the Win
Upon winning, Johnson told his supporters the victory has “ushered in a new chapter in the history of our city.” The progressive Cook County commissioner added that his being elected was a “bold, progressive movement” that should be a blueprint for the country.
The people’s mayor has his work cut out for him as there is a laundry list of problems within the city that desperately needs to be addressed. Including but not limited to educational reform and a revamping of the police department.
Many Rejoice
News of his victory has caused many residents to rejoice. One person, Chakena D. Perry, on Twitter posted, “Chicago just elected a new mayor. He’s a teacher. [Johnson is] a husband and father. He’s an organizer. His name is Brandon Johnson. We just elected someone who cares deeply about the poor and working class… wow. Chicago outdid itself today. I’m so proud.”
Peter J. Duffin tweeted, “I’m all for making Chicago better, and fully support any mayor that works towards doing just that.”
“I’ve never been so proud and I’ve never felt like it was such an important moment like this esp what I heard in the media with Vallas. Wasn’t expecting this but so happy I participated in this happening!!!!!,” stated Zehra Shan on Twitter.
A Better Tomorrow
Johnson’s vision for the city is one many people would like to see. He wants to create “a city that’s safer for everyone by investing in what actually works to prevent crime.” This means having more mental health centers, youth employment, and “ensuring that law enforcement has the resources to solve and prevent crimes.”
He also plans to promote 200 new detectives. The People’s Mayor believes that solving more crimes would increase trust in the police. In addition, it would also deter crime from happening.
After so many years without a strong voice to lead, Chicago has finally gotten it with the People’s Mayor.
Tonight, we have shown the world the power of hope, the strength of organizing, and the might of our collective voice.
Tomorrow, the real work begins. We will build a safer, stronger Chicago that reflects the hopes and dreams of every one of us — together. pic.twitter.com/7LX4u2OReY
— Brandon Johnson (@Brandon4Chicago) April 5, 2023
by Sheena Robertson
Sources:
WGN9: Brandon Johnson elected Chicago mayor, defeating Paul Vallas
CNN: Progressive Brandon Johnson will be elected Chicago mayor, succeeding Lori Lightfoot, CNN projects
WGN9: City of Chicago Election Results
Images Courtesy of Commissioner Brandon Johnson‘s Facebook Page
