Chicago’s new mayor launched her history-making administration with a shot across the bow at aldermen whose support she needs to solve Chicago’s financial crisis.
“For years, they’ve said Chicago ain’t ready for reform. Well, get ready, because reform is here,” Mayor Lori Lightfoot said during her inaugural address on Monday.
Thousands gathered at Wintrust Arena to witness the inauguration of Chicago’s first openly gay and African-American female mayor. They rose to their feet in rousing applause.
As it turned out, their new mayor was just getting warmed up.
After returning to City Hall, Lightfoot made good on a key campaign pledge by signing an executive order stripping aldermen of their absolute power over licenses and permits in their wards.