Elections are all about change and this time around, that change may mean the dramatic alteration of Chicago's city council.
No fewer than eight aldermen may be abdicating their seats after the end of their current term, according to the Sun-Times' Fran Spielman.
The exodus began with Ald. Toni Preckwinkle's successful run for Cook County Board President. She moves up next year. On Monday, Ald. Helen Shiller announced she wouldn't run for re-election.
Now, at least six more aldermen are rumored to be leaving their posts: Ginger Rugai (19th), Jim Balce (11th), Frank Olivo (13th), Ed Smith (28th), Vi Daley (43rd), Pat Levar (45th), Mary Ann Smith (48th) and Bernard Stone (50th). Each is said to be thinking of quitting outright in order to end their careers the way they want to -- and not be tossed out by angry voters.
A second group of aldermen could be leaving because they want to seek higher office, Spielman says.
Alderman Brian Doherty (41st) has eyes on a state senate seat. Ald.s Robert Fioretti (2nd), Scott Waguespack (32nd) and Tom Allen (38th) are said to covet the mayor's job.
