Top 6 Election Day Pseudo-Scandals

Election 2015, Public Affairs, Winter 2015

February 24, 2015

By Kate Morrissey and Karin Vandraiss

The Daley dynasty may be a thing of the past, but Chicago politics are still alive and well. Between questionable politicking and social media sass, this year’s election hasn’t disappointed when it comes to shenanigans worthy of the Windy City.

1. Doughnut-debacle 2015. Best enjoyed with your own Box O’Joe, some poll watchers from Patrick Daley Thompson’s campaign were observed offering voters coffee and doughnuts prior to casting their votes.

A table with free donuts and coffee was set up in the middle of a Bridgeport polling station this morning by poll watchers who told voters to vote for Richard Daley Thompson while they were standing within the anti-electioneering “campaign free zone.”

2. Snooze button struggle. Carol Ronen, Democratic Committeewoman of the 48th Ward, said that a judge showed up late to the polling location for the 27th precinct, which delayed its opening. Voters took to social media to express their frustration.

Gerald Farinas Facebook post — Gerald Farinas said via Facebook that he wants to vote for Willie Wilson, but his polling place was closed when he went before work. (Gerald Farinas/Facebook)

3. Like a good neighbor. Alderman John Arena (45th) seemed a little salty about the present left at his door. Residents responded with a mix of support and questions about proof.

.@JohnGarridoIII put fish bait outside our office this morning. We work 2 improve the Ward, he works on dirty tricks. pic.twitter.com/isDXh0e0h4

— John Arena (@JohnArena445) February 24, 2015

4. Red light karma. A Chicago Tribune reporter caught the mayoral motorcade running yet another red light.

Mayor Rahm Emanuel's two car motorcade just ran a red light at 11th and Michigan after his Election Day lunch appearance.

— Bill Ruthhart (@BillRuthhart) February 24, 2015

5. “A little mysterious,” but nothing serious. Willie Wilson called for an investigation into calibration issues with polling machines causing “voting irregularities,” but The Election Board isn’t taking his claims too seriously.

6. Bear down, voters. Twitter user @charlescubfan wrote in Mike Ditka for treasurer and posted a picture of his ballot. The Election Board was not amused.

@charlescubfan Did you know it's illegal to take a photo of your ballot? Just a heads-up; might want to retract this…

— ChicagoElection (@ChicagoElection) February 24, 2015

Photo at top: Mayor Rahm Emanuel at the Chinese New Year parade in Chinatown. (Ezra Kaplan/Medill)