This is just the beginning! Our collection holds over 300 years of history, including rare newspapers, obituaries, marriage records, birth records, and so much more—most of which you won’t find anywhere else!
Daley patronage case tied sewer hires to political influence
In Chicago, former patronage chief Robert Sorich and four aides face trial over a scheme to fill city posts with party loyalists. Witness Mary Jo Falcon testified she helped compile a "blessed list" of hires for the sewer and water department, denying any deviation from political influence. Prosecutors say Sorich directed candidates who backed Daley campaigns, while officials claim the office merely recommended names. The Shakman Decree limits political hiring, but prosecutors allege the patronage system persisted.
MENTIONED IN THIS ARTICLE
Chicago
Richard M. Daley
Sewer Department
Mary Jo Falcon
Robert Sorich
Sorich
Falcon
U.S
Patrick M. Collins
Collins
Daley
Timothy
Shakman
Intergovernmental Affairs
Combined Sewer and Water Department