Opposed by five political unknowns, Ald. Arenda Troutman had appeared well on her way to winning another four-year term in the Feb. 27 election. There was little interest in the campaign outside her 20th Ward.
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But Troutman’s arrest Monday on corruption charges sent labor unions and other political players rushing to learn about the challengers in the South Side ward.
“There was no indication there was huge momentum for anybody running against her,” said Ald. Howard Brookins (21st). Now, Brookins said, “all of the other candidates will beat her up” and may be able to raise money based on her troubles.
Organized labor groups such as the Service Employees International Union plan to support council challengers across the city, but they had not anticipated taking sides in the 20th Ward. Although it’s too late for new candidates to enter the race, SEIU officials quickly commissioned a poll to gauge whether Troutman may be vulnerable to any of her challengers.
Nothing prohibits Troutman from running while she is a defendant in a criminal case. And it’s far from clear how much the charges will wound her politically. Voters in the 37th Ward chose to keep Percy Giles as their alderman in 1999 despite the criminal charges pending against him.
Only a conviction would require Troutman to give up the office she has held since 1990. The mayor appoints replacements for council vacancies. If Troutman is re-elected next month but is later forced from office, a special election could be held in 2009.
Troutman supporters, including a sister of the alderman, have challenged the nominating petitions of all five opponents. Election authorities have not yet determined whether her rivals can stay on the ballot.
One of Troutman’s opponents, former police sergeant and laundry owner Willie B. Cochran, said Monday the incumbent has not been accessible to her constituents.
“Most people in the ward are tired of our public officials being embroiled in one controversy after another,” Cochran said.
Another opponent, lawyer David E. Neely, said he prayed for Troutman and her family.
“A person is presumed innocent until proven guilty, but it’s time to move on with the business of the 20th Ward,” said Neely.
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ONLINE: Read the criminal complaint and get the latest updates at chicagotribune.com