Imperial Dems of Cook County

Well, I can hardly stand to write about Cook County corrupt behavior any more. Newly elected Todd Stroger breaks a campaign promise before he even officially takes office, refusing to fire his father's patronage boss, who still draws a six-figure salary for doing nothing. The Sun Times, after cynically endorsing him as one who will "reform from within" apparently has buyer's remorse.

Meanwhile, Bobbie Steele, who has stood in for Todd's ailing father these last few months, is pulling a fast one, opting to retire at the higher Cook County Board President pension level, rather than at her still generous commissioner salary level. Eric Zorn digs up a curious little pension loophole for Cook County alone.

Oh, and Steele suggests her son take over her commissioner spot.

Why even bother having elections in bankrupt Cook County? It's the Imperial Dems. All noblesse, no oblige. The obligations are all ours as taxpayers.