Chicago’s new mayor has a lot on her plate, including addressing immigration, improving schools, and reducing crime.

Chicago’s New Mayor Faces a Daunting To-Do List

From a Migrant Crisis to Rampant Crime, Brandon Johnson Has His Work Cut Out for Him

Chicago Mayor-elect Brandon Johnson is set to take office on Monday, but he already has a long list of challenges to tackle. The city is currently under a state of emergency due to an influx of refugees seeking asylum, which has created a humanitarian and health crisis. On top of that, Chicago is struggling with a rampant crime problem that has driven several big businesses out of the area, as well as a volatile economy.

Johnson, a Democrat, defeated outgoing Mayor Lori Lightfoot in the general election and then Paul Vallas in a runoff challenge to become Chicago’s 57th mayor. But his victory doesn’t guarantee an easy road ahead. Voters are concerned about taxes, affordable housing, economic inequality, and education, and many doubt that Johnson will be able to tackle these issues better than his predecessors.

Education and Crime Are Top Priorities

Chicago public schools have been facing a decline in enrollment coupled with sky-high truancy rates. Chronic absenteeism rose nearly 45% in 2022, according to state data, which is well above the statewide rate of 30%. When it comes to the city’s low-income students, the rate is just shy of 50% missing at least 10% of their schooling. Johnson’s background as a teachers union organizer, former middle school teacher, and parent of children attending public school may make him amenable to the problems plaguing the system.

When it comes to tackling crime, Johnson has promised to be “smart” as well as “tough.” Chicago has been struggling to control violence for years, with safety concerns accounting for at least three large companies relocating and taking thousands of jobs with them. Johnson has already made a few power moves, signaling a different approach to a job his predecessor struggled with during her first term.

A New Chapter in Chicago’s History

During his victory speech in April, Johnson said his win signaled “a new chapter in the history” of Chicago. He has already made some changes, including reshuffling the City Council’s committees and appointing new leaders. But with widespread doubt among voters and a long list of challenges to tackle, Johnson has his work cut out for him.

Johnson’s To-Do List:

• Tackle the migrant crisis
• Address rampant crime
• Improve education
• Address economic inequality
• Provide affordable housing

It won’t be an easy road, but Johnson is determined to make a difference in Chicago. As he said in his victory speech, “We have a lot of work to do, but I’m ready to roll up my sleeves and get to work.”

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