CHICAGO (CBS) – The recent primary elections in Chicago have sparked discussions about the political climate and the influence of key figures within the Democratic Party. Among those figures is Cook County Democratic Party Chairwoman Toni Preckwinkle, who has played a pivotal role in shaping the political landscape of the area.
Election Results and Political Influence
Despite the loss of her preferred candidate in the Democratic primary race for Cook County’s next district attorney, Preckwinkle remains a significant force in local politics. “We won 21 out of 23 races, which is better than we’ve had in a long time,” she noted, highlighting the party’s overall success.
Key Losses and Moving Forward
The primary race for state attorney general saw Democrat Ellen O’Neill Burke advance to the general election in November, a setback for the party. “The party has had two tough losses, and I wish it were the other way around, but nobody wins every race,” Preckwinkle commented.
Clayton Harris, who ran with Preckwinkle’s endorsement, acknowledged her influence by stating, “Is she a kingmaker? Look at her resume.” However, Preckwinkle humbly dismissed the notion, emphasizing her roles as the chair of the county board of commissioners and the Democratic Party. “That’s not the same thing,” she said.
Political Dynamics and Future Prospects
Preckwinkle remains focused on supporting strong candidates rather than claiming the title of kingmaker. “I try to support good candidates. I’ve always done that since I was 16,” she explained. Despite her significant connections and influence, she downplayed claims about her political power.
When asked about the state attorney general race and the recent Chicago repatriation referendum, Preckwinkle dismissed suggestions that there might be a shift away from progressive movements in Chicago and Cook County. “No, I don’t think so. I think you have to look at those two races and see what happened. No, I don’t think so at all.”
Upcoming Initiatives and Community Engagement
Preckwinkle also took the opportunity to promote the “Pathways to Cook County” summit, scheduled for Tuesday at the University of Illinois at Chicago. The summit aims to provide scholarships, certifications, and job opportunities for county residents. For more information, visit the Cook County website.
Conclusion
Toni Preckwinkle’s reflections on the recent elections and her role within the Democratic Party highlight the complexities of political influence and the ongoing efforts to support and uplift communities in Cook County. As the political landscape continues to evolve, Preckwinkle remains a central figure, committed to fostering positive change and supporting capable candidates.
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