Progressives in Chicagoand across the countryactually should be encouraged by Rahm Emanuels balance of progressive ideas and pragmatic leadership and his re-election Tuesday on those terms. The mayoral runoff election wasnt about the future of liberalism in America, as many had speculated. Rather, this vote was about getting things done (a Midwestern ethos), on a huge scale, and at a time of persistent problems.
Some national organizations that supported challenger Jesus Chuy Garcia tried to frame this election as a macro sociopolitical moment. But Chicago, a city of neighborhoods, viewed the campaign through a hyper-local lens: What has the mayor done for me here, on my block, at my kids school, at my job? What do I still need him to do?
Over six weeks and three debates, voters in Chicagos more than 2,000 precincts got a crash course in Mr. Emanuels progressive accomplishments. He raised the minimum wage; secured universal full-day kindergarten; and created the Star Scholarship program, which waives community college tuition and fees for Chicago public school graduates with a B average. He opened city jobs and internships to undocumented immigrants who came to the U.S. as children (DREAMers). He expanded affordable housing. He cracked down on payday lenders predatory tactics. He passed an ordinance barring employer discrimination on the basis of credit history (something New York City progressives are still fighting for).
At this point, detractors will argue that Mr. Emanuel is too close to [insert evil-sounding entity here] or rail against specific parts of his record. But after many media-saturated weeks, a plurality of Chicagoans opted for Mr. Emanuel.
Economic inequality in the U.S. is too vast for any one elected official to quell it. But new opportunities can emerge, and policy ideas cannot become reality without strong leadership.Someday, his administration may serve as a case study of fighting for progressive public policy while remaining conversant with and responsive to the entities and institutions at the heart of economic growth.
Mr. Emanuels predecessor served 22 years in office, making this contested election a Chicago unicorn. Chicagoans paid attention. Granted, turnout was lowon an April day so cold the Cubs postponed their scheduled night game. Neighborhood by neighborhood, city residents are aware of looming obstacles, such as the staggering $32 billion in pension payments coming due. In a late-cycle television ad, Mayor Emanuel promised to do better. People across the country will be watching. His second term should be seen as a victory for decisiveness and vision and an opportunity, rather than a defeat, for progressives.
Tracy Sefl is a Democratic communications strategist who splits her time between Chicago and Washington. She works with nonprofits and advocacy organizations and is a senior adviser to Ready for Hillary PAC. She is on Twitter: @TracySefl.
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In Rahm Emanuels Re-Election, an Opportunity for Progressives