In a rare public break from tradition, the Cook County Democratic Party shook up its slating process last weekend — skipping a U.S. Senate endorsement, rejecting top picks, and dropping a two-term incumbent.
What’s normally a quiet backroom process of endorsing insiders turned into a revolt.
Party members refused to endorse a U.S. Senate candidate, rejected a top pick for Comptroller, and endorsed a local challenger against incumbent Assessor Fritz Kaegi.
Despite pressure from powerful names in Springfield and Washington, the party declined to endorse anyone in the high-stakes U.S. Senate race. That hasn’t happened since 2010.
State Rep. Margaret Croke was endorsed for Illinois Comptroller over candidates backed by Senate President Don Harmon and Cook County Board President Toni Preckwinkle.
The decision followed a tense, behind-closed-doors battle. Croke, known for her work ethic and government experience, prevailed.
“I’m very happy to support her,” said House Speaker Chris Welch, who stood firm for her during the process.
The party rejected two-term incumbent assessor Kaegi and endorsed Pat Hynes, the Lyons Township Assessor.
“I am thankful for the broad range of support I have received throughout the county,” Hynes said. “The Cook County Democratic Party is sending a strong message to property owners, seniors, veterans and others who seek to develop across the region – help is on the way.”
Kaegi has long claimed his office is fair and transparent. But the Black Caucus refused to back him, reportedly fed up with policies they say are hurting their communities.
Former State Senator Rickey Hendon, who made a passionate pitch for his own Comptroller bid, told party leaders the Democratic Party has lost the Black community — and unless they listen and act, they’ll lose more. “Drastic measures” are needed, he said.
The party also moved against 17th District Republican Cook County Commissioner Sean Morrison, of Palos Park, who has campaigned on term limits while seeking a third term. Democrats are backing Lyons Township Clerk Elyse Hoffenberg, a longtime advocate for transparency and good government.