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Chicago Politicians

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Chicago Politicians: Political People From Chicago, Illinois

There's a reason Chicago is called "The Windy City", and it isn't because of the wind coming in off Lake Michigan - the real origins of the term refer to the "wind" coming out of the mouths of Chicago politicians! Love them or hate them, Chicago's political leaders have been influential not only within the city and state, but throughout the history of the country. And, of course, now Chicago's most famous political leader is the President! So let's read on to learn more about Chicago's elected officials.

Federal Faces: Chicago Political Leaders in Federal Government

From the Windy City to the White House

Many Chicago area political leaders have gone on to serve in the United States Federal government in a variety of ways. This has only increased with the election of the first United States President from Chicago, President Barack Obama. Chicagoans serve in the areas of education, veteran's affairs, and Presidential advising.
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The Man With The Plan - Rahm Emanuel

The Plan: Big Ideas for Change in America

The Plan: Big Ideas for Change in America

by: Rahm Emanuel, Bruce Reed

Amazon Price: $2.45 (as of 05/26/2012)Buy Now

If there's one Chicago politician who has more influence with the President than anyone else right now, it's Rahm Emanuel. His views and plans are no secret, however - he wrote about about them that came out this year, just before President Obama was sworn into office. If you want a behind the scenes look at what Rahm and his team have in store for the Obama presidency, read this book!

Release Date: 01/05/2009

Chicago Senators: Serving Illinois in Congress

It's often true that Illinois' Senators are usually from Chicago or have a strong Chicago connection, because Chicago is one of the most influential areas of the state. Learn more about some of Illinois' Senators below.
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Chicago Congressmen and Chicago Congresswomen: Representing Illinois' Districts

The area of Chicago and it's closest suburbs are split up into many Congressional districts, therefore many Congresspeople from Illinois have Chicago connections. Here are some of Chicago's Congresspersons.
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Political News from the Chicago Tribune

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State of Illinois Government Leaders

Illinois state politics can be messy - the recent impeachment of our governor, for example, was a national embarrassment. But some Illinois state leaders are dedicated public servants. Learn more about the good and the bad below.
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The Governor Speaks

The Governor

The Governor

by: Rod Blagojevich

Amazon Price: $1.99 (as of 05/26/2012)Buy Now

After his impeachment and removal from office, former Illinois Governor Rod Blagojevich now has his turn. Hear his side of the story, straight from the horse's mouth, in his brand new book.

Release Date: 09/08/2009

Illinois State Legislature Leaders

State Representatives and State Senators

The vibrant and often contentious Illinois State legislature has a variety of stars, many from the Chicago area.
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Illinois' Most Famous State Lawmaker

Lincoln and His World: The Early Years, Birth to Illinois Legislature

Lincoln and His World: The Early Years, Birth to Illinois Legislature

by: Richard Lawrence Miller

Amazon Price: $19.95 (as of 05/26/2012)Buy Now

Before Abraham Lincoln was President of the United States, he was a state legislator in Illinois. Learn more about the early years that shaped this remarkable man's future in politics.

Release Date: 12/31/1969

Cook County Lawmakers

Cook County, which encompasses the city of Chicago, has a strong political presence and power in the area. Here are some of the Cook County leaders.
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Chicago's Unelected Political Leaders

In addition to the many elected officials, Chicago is home to many political leaders and advisors who do not hold public office - either because they have never been successfully elected, or because they prefer to remain "behind the scenes". Here are some of these influential people.
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Who is your favorite political leader from Chicago?

  • Bigdaddyguru Oct 2, 2011 @ 9:20 pm | delete
    I didn't think there were any Chicago or Cook county politicians worthy of mention.
  • mbgphoto Dec 23, 2009 @ 11:46 am | delete
    From Lincoln to Obama....Chicago certainly has produced a wide range of political figures! Great lens. 5* and blessed by a Squid Angel!
  • JenOfChicago Dec 29, 2009 @ 12:42 am | delete
    Thanks mbgphoto!
  • DOGS THAT BARK Oct 21, 2009 @ 10:22 am | delete
    My favorite Chicago poloticians are Bobby Blue Chips and Gumby
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About Me

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JenOfChicago

I'm a proud Chicagoan, and I enjoy writing about Chicago first and foremost. I am also interested in politics, public leaders, non-profits, volunteering,... more »

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Chicago's Moment - Election Night 2008 

This Is Our Moment-election Night 2008 [dvd]

This Is Our Moment-election Night 2008 [dvd]

Amazon Price: $3.75 (as of 05/26/2012)Buy Now

This is Our Moment: Election Night 2008 Chicago was electric the night of November 4, 2008. Election night. Waves of Obama supporters poured into Grant Park to witness this unprecedented moment in history. Be moved again by Barack Obama s acceptance speech presented in its entirety and share the excitement at the victory rally. Commentary by Chicago Sun-Times Columnists Carol Marin, Richard Roeper and Mary Mitchell.

Chicago's Biography 

Chicago: A Biography

Chicago: A Biography

by: Dominic A. Pacyga

Amazon Price: $28.00 (as of 05/26/2012)Buy Now

From Publishers Weekly
My goal is to... tell the story of Chicago through events minor and major that I believe explain its importance to America and the world, says Pacyga, a veteran historian of the Windy City who teaches at Columbia College Chicago. The first permanent settler in a city that would be a magnet for the world's immigrants was probably Jean Baptiste Point de Sable, a fur trader of mixed West African and French descent. From there Pacyga goes on to discuss the economic, political, social and cultural development of the city, from the Erie Canal and the development of the railroads, which were crucial in making the city a thriving port and destination for immigrants, to Chicago's industry boom during the Civil War. The suburbs, the stockyards, Jane Addams's settlement house and public housing projects all receive Pycaga's attention, as does Richard Daley's infamous 20-year reign. Enlivened by archival pictures, this book offers a broad and compressed overview of the Windy City that's generally well written and absorbing and captures most of the highlights, although contemporary Chicago receives short shrift.

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