Chicago Politics!!!

Ahhhhhhhhhhh, Chicago politics. Isn't it great? We have old felons, potential new felons, and good old fashioned name calling up here in Chicago. While I really only deal with students and getting them out to volunteer at campaigns, part of my internship is to keep up to date with the comings and goings of candidates that are vying for offices with the City Council, as well as for Mayor and City Clerk. So, for the past month or so, I've reading the blogs, listening to the radio and scouring the newspapers looking for new information on what is going on.

So, below, you'll find some of the highlights and quick hits of the funnier side of Chicago politics. Enjoy.

First up, welcome to Chicago Politics, Vegas-style. Where else could there be a betting pool on who wins the races for City Councilman (called Alderman here)? It's like March Madness, but for politicians. Check it out and lay your bets. (This also a great website to check out various candidates and how much money they have raised). And for those of you who are wondering what does an Alderman exactly do and why are there 50? I have the answers.

Second, there can't be a Chicago politics race without a little controversy. The first deals with an alderwoman who is currently charged with corruption, but can still run. Interesting??

And if that isn't enough check this OUT.
And now, who says that you can't have a second chance at election. Just ask these guys.

And then there are the current local politicians who want a new office, but are convicted felons who took bribes while in office: 1 and 2

And if you didn't think family wasn't important. Check out this local race. It involves Jesse Jackson Jr.'s wife versus the daughter of another Chicago politician and their bid for City Council. Oh and Jesse Jackson, Jr. and Mr. Beavers have an old feud. Think Hatfields and McCoys.

Now, let's see what today's paper says:

Oh yea, Obama is set to announce he is running (and subsequently wants to miss the first Presidential debate). T-shirts, buttons, flyers and the guy hasn't even announced yet. And the blogs are already saying that they've spotted Matt Damon and George Clooney are in Springfield for the announcement. Some of the high school students I work with are going down to Springfield tomorrow in order to witness his announcement. I'll let you know what they say.

Oh, and here is a debate with Keyes (who Obama ran against for Senate in 2004) that he had while running for Senate. How is he?

Well, now that you have had a taste of the political score, I can officially say "Welcome to Chicago" in the proper way.