Illinois banned out-of-state donations to deter outside influence in judicial campaigns, but candidates and experts say it fails to address interference from powerful individuals and groups within the state.
Injustice Watch and WBEZ’s Curious City podcast teamed up to explain why it’s so rare for a Cook County judge to be voted out of office.
A diverse lineup of judicial candidates courted the party’s central committee at the obscure “pre-slating” event.
With nearly all the votes counted, Judge Jackie Portman-Brown did not get enough “yes” votes to stay on the bench as of Tuesday. Another judge is holding on to his seat by 282 votes.
Judge Michael Toomin, who was the target of opposition by juvenile justice advocates, appeared to narrowly hang on to his seat. Three other judges were also expected to win by slim margins, according to unofficial results as of Wednesday morning.
County officials say the jail mailroom accidentally rejected Injustice Watch’s judicial election guide. But accidents violate the Constitution, too.
Judicial elections bring high stakes and consequences, especially for Black, Latinx and other marginalized groups disproportionately impacted by the justice system.
Kenneth J. Wadas has been reversed 25 times in 6 years — more than any other Cook County criminal court judge on the November ballot running to remain in office.
Judicial bar ratings are complex and important. We asked an expert to explain them.
Party leadership voted overwhelmingly not to endorse judges Michael Toomin and Mauricio Araujo for retention.