Top 6 Election Day Pseudo-Scandals

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

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.”
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.

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

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.

 

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