May 13--Longtime 10th Ward Ald. John Pope on Tuesday conceded defeat in last month's election after it became clear from a partial recount that he could not overcome his 20-vote loss to challenger Susan Sadlowski Garza.
Pope dropped his legal challenge of the election results, ending a 16-year Chicago City Council career. Pope had been a loyal ally to both former Mayor Richard M. Daley and Mayor Rahm Emanuel. Garza, a school counselor and daughter of a well-known steel union organizer, had significant financial support from labor groups, including the Chicago Teachers Union.
"After examining the vote tallies from the April 7th election, I have decided to drop my claim for a recount," Pope said in a statement. "It has been an honor and privilege to serve as the 10th Ward Alderman since 1999.
"Working with my neighbors in the 10th Ward we have accomplished much but the work never ends. I will continue to work with the community to advance the greater good and I wish the Alderman-elect the best of luck during her first term."
Jake Breymaier, a spokesman for Pope's campaign, said it would have been very expensive to continue the court challenge, and it was not certain Pope would prevail.
With Garza's victory in the Far Southeast Side ward, 13 new aldermen will be sworn in on Monday alongside Emanuel.
hdardick@tribpub.com
