I will be attending and supporting the picket of the event originally promoted as the Real Estate Investment Association’s (REIA) Cook County Assessor Candidate Debate.
The event was later renamed the Cook County Assessor Democratic Candidate Debate after concerns were raised, resulting in at least one qualified candidate being excluded from participating. Regardless of intent, changing the structure or branding of a public forum in ways that limit who can participate undermines open debate and voter trust.
Candidates should be challenged, questioned, and compared in public—especially on an issue as important as property taxation. Voters deserve inclusive, transparent forums where all qualified candidates can present their ideas and be held accountable.