Brandon Johnson sworn in as Chicago mayor: ‘Our best and brightest days are ahead of us’
CHICAGO — Brandon Johnson ushered in his mayoral term Monday with a rousing promise to propel the “soul of Chicago” into its greatest era yet, highlighting his once-improbable rise from teacher to labor organizer to the most progressive mayor in decades of the nation’s third-largest city.
Under an LED ceiling banner flashing the Chicago and American flags, Johnson took the oath of office in front of thousands of cheering fans inside the University of Illinois at Chicago’s Credit Union 1 Arena following prayers and performances, including a rendition of “Lift Every Voice and Sing,” known as the Black national anthem by the Soul Children of Chicago.
“You are installed!” Chief Judge Timothy Evans told the new mayor after administering the oath. “You take care of ’em now. God be with you.”
At times emotional and other times humorous, Johnson inaugural address touched on history, civil rights, his late mother, his previously unpaid water bills and his bold agenda that he vowed can transform the city, while also acknowledging its vast challenges.
He began his remarks by shouting out the greatness of Chicago: the “beauty” of Lake Michigan, the rich arts and culture and even the signature Italian beef.
