New director of the Democratic Party of Illinois ready to get started

State Rep. Christian Mitchell (D-Chicago) has added a new job: executive director of the Democratic Party of Illinois.(PHOTO:Dave Dahl)

 

By Dave Dahl

SPRINGFIELD– We’re seeing more of State Rep. Christian Mitchell (D-Chicago) around the state this campaign season. Part of that is because he is the new executive director of the Democratic Party of Illinois.

In that role, he succeeds Tim Mapes, right-hand man to party chairman and House Speaker Mike Madigan (D-Chicago). Mapes was ousted as part of the #MeToo scandal.

Speaking of that, in addition to criticism that Madigan has been in power too long, there’s some that he’s late to the game in trying to stop sexual harassment, intimidation, and discrimination. Mitchell disagrees.

Mitchell says a recent Chicago Tribune piece by Madigan “said, ‘I own this, this is on me, and here is what I’m doing to fix this.’ That level of accountability from a leader is something that ought to be applauded. Is there more to do? Absolutely. I think the chairman would acknowledge that, but we’re taking steps forward, and a leader taking accountability is an important example, and I think the chairman’s done that.”

How much longer should he remain Speaker, a role he’s held – except for two years – since 1983?

“You’d have to ask him that question.”

As for the job of party executive director, Mitchell says, “My job is to win races. I think my job is also to make sure the party is communicating a message that is inclusive, that brings in all wings of the party and all regions of the state, and that people can see themselves in.”

Blogs

Labor Day – Expanding voting rights for all

By Mike Matejka Because of COVID, there is no Labor Day Parade this year.  It’s always a great event for our everyday workers to march proudly down the street and enjoys the festive crowd. If there had been a parade, this year’s Labor Day theme was to be “150 years of struggle: your right to vote.” …

Is federal mobilization the answer?

By Mike Matejka As President Donald Trump threatens to send federal marshals into Chicago, over the objections of Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker, recall another Illinois Governor who protested the incursion of armed federal personnel into the city.   Those federal troops, rather than calming, escalated the situation, leading to deaths and violence. Illinois poet Vachel Lindsay…

In these troubled times, to my fellow white Americans

By Mike Matejka Our nation is at a unique watershed in human relations. African-Americans have been killed too many times in the past before George Floyd, but the response to this man’s death is international and all-encompassing. I was a grade-schooler during the Civil Rights 1960s. I watched Birmingham demonstrators hosed and the Selma – Montgomery…

Workers’ Memorial Day – Remember those whose job took their life

Looking around our community, when we say employer, most will respond to State Farm, Country, or Illinois State University.   We too often forget those who are building our roads, serving our food, or our public employees. COVID-19 has made us more aware of the risk.  Going to work every day for some people means…