Chicago City Wire

Corey DeAngelis, an executive of the National Teachers' Union, addressed concerns regarding a leaked email from Leo Casey, assistant to Randi Weingarten. The email highlights issues with Mayor Brandon Johnson's administration in Chicago and suggests it is affecting confidence in left-wing governance.

"The email that was leaked to me was sent by Leo Casey, Assistant to Randi Weingarten," said DeAngelis. "He says "winning an election does not necessarily translate into the ability to govern. it is important to face squarely what has happened in Chicago.. It has not gone well."

According to the New York Post, Casey's email refers to the "disastrous tenure of union-backed progressive Windy City mayor Johnson," using Johnson as an example that electoral success does not necessarily translate into effective governance. Casey expressed disappointment over the lack of public discussion within left-wing circles about the challenges faced in Chicago.

A poll cited by the New York Post indicated that Johnson had an 80% disapproval rating at one point, underscoring widespread dissatisfaction with his leadership and supporting Casey's assertion that Johnson's performance is damaging the left's reputation.

In October 2024, all seven members of Chicago’s school board resigned simultaneously due to tensions over Johnson’s attempts to remove CPS CEO Pedro Martinez and approve a high-interest loan for pension and contract costs. Axios reports that these resignations highlight significant unrest within institutions under Johnson's influence and reinforce perceptions of governance difficulties.

Johnson, previously a Chicago Teachers Union (CTU) organizer, was on leave from Chicago Public Schools (CPS) during his time as mayor. This situation raised concerns about potential conflicts of interest related to future salary or pension increases negotiated by CTU. A CPS memo pointed out this issue, with critics arguing that his dual roles could compromise his objectivity as a city leader.

DeAngelis is recognized nationally as a school choice advocate and serves as a senior fellow at the American Culture Project. He also holds positions as a visiting fellow at the American Institute for Economic Research (AIER) and as a senior advisor for both Americans for Fair Treatment and Accuracy in Media.