Ald. Susan Sadlowski Garzathe first member of the Chicago Teachers Union ever elected to City Council and a onetime ally of Mayor Lori Lightfootis retiring after two terms, The Chicago Tribune reported.
Overall, Garzathe daughter of famous labor leader Eddie "Oil Can" Sadlowskiwas hailed as a progressive champion throughout much of her time in politics.
Earlier this year, Garza gave an interview to journalist Ben Joravsky in which she said of Lightfoot, "I have never met anybody who has managed to piss off every single person they come in contact withpolice, fire, teachers, aldermen, businesses, manufacturing, and that's it." Lightfoot later praised Garza even after the remarks.
Garza's departure from City Council is the latest in a long line of alderpeople who are exiting. Others include Alds. Tom Tunney (44th Ward), James Cappleman (46th), Michele Smith (43rd), Harry Osterman (48th), Leslie Hairston (5th) and Carrie Austin (34th). Austin said she will not run again after being indicted on federal bribery charges.
Three other members of the councilAlds. Raymond Lopez (15th Ward), Sophia King (4th) and Ald. Roderick Sawyer (6th)are running for mayor next year against Lightfoot, so they are unable to seek re-election as City Council members. Ald. George Cardenas (12th Ward) will exit the council before the end of his term should he be elected in November to serve on the Cook County's Board of Review.