Greg Hinz: As Ed Burke's final chapter begins, Chicago-style politics remains

As the trial of the once-powerful Finance Committee chairman, Ed Burke, gets underway, many may be tempted to see it as the end of the notorious Chicago-style politics. However, it is crucial to recognize that this trial represents just a chapter in the ongoing saga of corruption and political influence that has plagued the city for decades. Chicago has long been synonymous with gritty politics and backroom deals, earning its reputation as the birthplace of the infamous "Chicago Way." This term refers to a style of politics characterized by patronage, machine politics, and a focus on personal gain rather than public service. Ed Burke, a veteran alderman who held significant power and influence in the city for over 50 years, is facing multiple charges of corruption. Federal prosecutors allege that Burke used his position to leverage private business for personal gain, amassing a fortune while neglecting the needs of his constituents. The trial against Burke is expected to shed light on the inner workings of Chicago politics and expose the often opaque relationships between politicians, businesses, and influential individuals. It presents an opportunity to explore the extent of corruption within the city's political system and evaluate whether meaningful reforms are necessary to break free from the cycle of corruption. However, it is essential to temper any expectations of a swift and radical change in Chicago's political landscape. While Burke's trial may serve as a wake-up call for some, it is unlikely to eradicate the deeply ingrained culture of corruption that has become a hallmark of the city's politics. Chicago's history is riddled with instances of corruption and political scandal. From the infamous Prohibition-era gangsters to the more recent convictions of former governors Rod Blagojevich and George Ryan, the city's politicians have frequently found themselves at the center of scandalous affairs. The corruption that permeates Chicago's political system is not limited to a single individual or party. It is a systemic issue that transcends partisan lines and has become ingrained in the city's political fabric. This deeply rooted culture of corruption makes it exceedingly difficult to pinpoint specific individuals responsible for the city's woes. While Burke's trial may provide some insight into the inner workings of the Chicago political machine, it is essential to recognize that corruption in the city extends far beyond one person or one committee. It is a complex and multifaceted problem that requires a comprehensive and sustained effort to address. In recent years, Chicago has made some progress in combating corruption. Former Mayor Rahm Emanuel implemented various ethics reforms aimed at increasing transparency and accountability within the city government. However, these efforts have been met with mixed results, and many argue that more needs to be done to effectively dismantle the entrenched system of corruption. One crucial aspect of combating corruption in Chicago is reducing the influence of money in politics. The city's campaign finance laws remain relatively lax compared to other major cities, allowing for large campaign contributions and potential avenues for political favors. Additionally, greater oversight and accountability mechanisms should be established to ensure that elected officials are held to the highest ethical standards. This can be achieved through the establishment of independent watchdog agencies and the implementation of stricter penalties for corruption and ethics violations. At the same time, Chicagoans themselves must demand more from their elected officials. Voters must prioritize integrity, honesty, and a commitment to public service when choosing their representatives. By holding elected officials accountable and demanding ethical conduct, citizens can help break the cycle of corruption that has plagued the city for decades. While Ed Burke's trial may be a significant moment in Chicago's political history, it is not the end of the story. The deeply entrenched culture of corruption and political influence will not disappear overnight. It will require a concerted and sustained effort from both politicians and citizens to bring about meaningful change. As Chicagoans, we must remain vigilant in holding our elected officials accountable and demanding ethical conduct. By working together, we can strive towards a future where the Chicago Way becomes a thing of the past and the city's politics are characterized by transparency, integrity, and a genuine commitment to serving the public.