Last Thursday, (Feb. 1, 2007), the Cook County Democratic Party met and filled the vacancy created by long-time party chairman Tom Lyons, formerly of the 45th Ward, when he resigned. Initially, Committeeman Lyons resigned due to poor health, but within days he passed away leaving a long and productive political career that his friends and family are proud of.
The election for Party Chairman initially had three candidates, Lou Lang of Niles Township, Ike Carothers of the 29th Ward, and Joe Barrios of the 31st Ward. In the strange system of Cook County Democratic politics that meant three minorities: an African-American, a Hispanic and a suburbanite. A minority was guaranteed to make history with his election as Chairman.
Much to my honest surprise all three promised to make great changes and reforms in the by-laws, the traditional ways of doing business and in opening up the party to outsiders and to the public. After 15 years of experience, forgive me if I am skeptical. Maybe I would have a little more faith in the promises had they not instantly resorted to one of the least open and most common tactics of the Democratic Party. The three contenders slipped off into a backroom and made a deal so that each of them would be able to hold a party office. Much to the surprise of no one, their was only one candidate with two new supporters 20 minutes later. That candidate, Joe Barrios, was elected by a unanimous voice vote by those bothering to vote at all..
It had been said for days the candidates were going to reach an agreement. As if it mattered I was for Lou Lang. He seemed the most genuine in his desire to open up the party and bring it roaring in to the 20th century. No that wasn’t a typo.
It’s a good thing that the local party has the ability to do what is best for its ward or township.
