Rahm Emanuel goes to the White House. Goody for him. Now we can maybe get a real progressive Representative from the 5th Congressional district in Illinois. Here's my choice:
Chicago Alderman Tom TunneyBy all accounts Tunney is a true anti-war progressive and an intelligent, down to earth candidate.
http://www.44thward.org/index.htm">Check out his 44th Ward Website here.
Elected on February 25, 2003 as Chicago's first openly gay alderman, Tom's vision includes serving his constituents as a full-time, full-service alderman by alleviating congestion in the ward, limiting property taxes for seniors and long-term residents and improving education for our children so that young families remain in Lakeview. In his first year as alderman of the 44th Ward, Tom introduced sweeping zoning reforms for several business and residential properties in the ward.
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Tom's public service record includes being the former chairman of the Illinois Restaurant Association, founder and former president of the Lakeview Center Business Association and founding board member and former chairman of the White Crane Senior Center. He established "Restaurant Nights" at Illinois Masonic Hospital to serve meals to AIDS patients and their families and was the former fund-raising chair for Impact, a gay and lesbian political action organization. Additionally, Tom was the former chair of the small business subcommittee for the City of Chicago's Economic Development Committee, and served on Mayor Daley's Parking Task Force...
Tom, 52 years old, was born and raised in Chicago. He received his undergraduate degree from the University of Illinois and his master's degree from Cornell University. Tom has been a resident of the Lakeview neighborhood for over 25 years.
A few more links:
http://www.lakeviewaction.org/meeting_with_alderman_tom_tunney.htm">Homeless youth and police relations
http://www.lakeviewchamber.com/site/epage/34541_512.htm">Community directed development
http://www.allbusiness.com/human-resources/careers-career-development/1225-1.html">Part Restaurateur, Part Community Activist, Part Philanthropist
On top of all this, Tunney help pass a resolution in January 2003 putting the City of Chicago on record opposing the invasion of Iraq.
Here's the catch: Alderman Tunney doesn't yet know that his destiny is to seek this office.I'm sending him an email and calling his office tomorrow to see if there's any interest. Maybe a few calls or emails from DUers and other progressives would help light a fire.
Phone: (773) 525-6034
Fax: (773) 525-5058
Ward44@cityofchicago.org
It's worth a shot. This Emanuel appointment could have a silver lining. The 5th district could end up with the representation it deserves.
PS: I assume there will be an appointment after the Rahmmer leaves. Maybe we need to press Blagojevich? After Tunney agrees of course. :)