Stroger To Run Again

Cook County Board President John Stroger announced yesterday that he will be running for a fourth term.

Stroger also alluded to possible property tax hikes next year to cover budget shortfalls, and defended his use of patronage, which immediately drew the ire of his political opponents.

“We voted down tax increases and we proved they weren’t necessary. We didn’t have those tax increases and there wasn't a single cut in services the last two years,” said Cook County Commissioner Mike Quigley.

“We need to decrease, not increase, the level of taxation against individuals and businesses in Cook County, and we need to eliminate corruption, which is pervasive throughout this government,” said Cook County Commissioner Tony Peraica.

“I fundamentally disagree with the way he's run this government, which is about politics. It’s about taking care of his family and friends. It's not about taking care of the taxpayers who are struggling paycheck to paycheck,” said Cook County Commissioner Forrest Claypool.

Stroger has vowed to fight back against the charges made by Quigley, Claypool, and Peraica. In other words, it's going to get nasty.