Baker still in sheriff's race

The Cook County Sheriff candidate backed by several Black elected officials is still in the race despite a challenge to his nominating petitions.

The Cook County Clerk's office last week overruled a challenge to Sylvester Baker's candidacy based on the validity of his nominating papers. A complaint was filed by Michael O. Fleming, who was unable to be reached for comment.

Kelly Quinn, a spokeswoman for the clerk's office, said she did not know whom Fleming was associated with.

David Lowery Jr., spokesman for Baker, said he expected the electoral board to rule in Baker's favor.

"It should have never even been an issue," said Lowery. "We can expect games, but we're going to win this."

Baker primary opposition in the March 21 primary is Tom Dart, a former state representative in the 28th district, who currently serves as chief of staff to retiring Cook County Sheriff Michael Sheahan.

Dart has the backing of the Cook County Democratic organization, as well as Cook County Board President John Stroger Jr. and Sen. Barack Obama (D-Ill.).

Baker, a retired Cook County Sheriff's Office sergeant, was the candidate chosen by a group of Black elected officials at a November meeting, including Rep. Bobby Rush (D-1st), Ald. Dorothy Tillman (3rd) and state Sen. James Meeks (D-15th), and at least a dozen other Black elected officials.

Former Cook County Corrections employee Richard L. Remus, the third Democratic sheriff's candidate in the March 21, primary filed an objection to Dart's nominating papers, but that challenge was overruled Jan. 6.

Article copyright REAL TIMES Inc.