Chicago's #Aldermen practice their privilege at every committee and council meeting, on every subject from signboards to liquor licenses. They invoke their unbridled privilege often. It gives us a glimpse of the political workings within the city's administration. Numerous examples show misuse of their power, and how it is used for providing favors to their allies. The veto-like power of Aldermen has proven to be an impediment in several different projects. In reality, what is important and favorable for the entire city is that their council members should have a voice, not a veto.

Perhaps the most obvious example of corruption can be found in Southwest Side (Ward 14) Alderman Ed Burke, who is set to stand trial in November 2023 on charges of racketeering, bribery, and extortion. By the time the trial starts, over four years will have passed since he was indicted by the federal government in May of 2019. One of the charges against him alleges that he threatened to oppose a Chicago museum's push to increase its admission fee as retaliation for them not giving an internship to his friend's child. 

Nonetheless, Burke was reelected 55 days after the indictment. Many people have called for him to resign, but what reason would he have to do so? Chicago does not seem serious about demanding for him to change. It appears that the majority are satisfied with the status quo. There is a great deal of speculation that he may seek another term when this one expires.

The wards of Chicago are being treated like the personal fiefdom of the City Council members using their de facto power as they please. Lori Lightfoot stated during her inaugural address that she is committed to "ending their unilateral, unchecked control over every single thing that goes on their wards. Aldermen will have a voice, not a veto.”

Aldermanic privilege has to end, no question about it. If it doesn't, Chicagoans will never get the representation they need and deserve.