‘Power and control’ frame Edward Burke’s legacy. A federal jury will soon decide that legacy’s ending. – Chicago Sun-Times

Former Ald. Edward Burke (14th), who was once the most powerful member of the Chicago City Council, goes on trial Nov. 6. He faces sweeping racketeering and extortion charges as the result of a corruption investigation.Burke entered politics as one of the youngest City Council members in Chicago history, eventually becoming its most powerful and longest-serving alderperson. “He’s an extraordinary figure in Chicago history, but wrapped in Greek tragedy,” said former City Hall Inspector General Joseph Ferguson. “How much more he could have done. His strengths became his weaknesses.”
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debtsor
2 years ago

The fact that he alone controlled the city’s workers compensation system with zero oversight for decades, literally under lock and key that no one else in all of government had access to, and he never allowed the inspector general to review his control, is completely insane. He absolutely looted the city.

Paul Boomer
2 years ago

Burke has stolen millions of dollars during his time as an alderman. He has enriched his friends, family and business associates. He deserves to die in prison because of the crimes he has committed against the tax payers.

Da Judge
2 years ago
Reply to  Paul Boomer

I say skip da prison sentence if he will submit to a public flogging at Daley Plaza.

Da Judge
2 years ago

Another corrupt POS Illinois Dem.

When are the Feds going to charge the Illinois Dem Party as a criminal enterprise?!!

Ex Illini
2 years ago

The food at Club Fed won’t please Mr. Burke’s palette. And let’s not even talk about the bunk beds. It seems that so many of these lifelong Illinois politicians eventually get so greedy and careless in running their shakedowns that the Feds finally nail them. And when the Feds charge you, they play to win. Spending the little time you have left in custody is no way to go out. Have fun Ed.

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Mark Glennon on AM560’s Morning Answer: Chicago pension buyout plan mostly shifts debt rather than eliminating it, property tax surge doubles inflation over three decades

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