A New Chapter in Court Leadership

I am running for Chief Judge of the Circuit Court of Cook County because I believe it’s time to open a new chapter in court leadership — one rooted in compassion, accountability, and bold vision. After serving in multiple divisions of this court and working alongside judges from every corner of our system, I know firsthand what we need to move forward: a leader who sees judges not just as jurists, but as people — and who leads with both strength and care.

Our courts face real challenges, and the moment calls for meaningful change — not just in what we do, but how we lead.

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As Chief Judge, I will be guided by four core pillars:

Back to Basics: Strengthening Judicial Education

Judges deserve more than orientation. They deserve preparation. I will invest in practical, localized judicial education — including comprehensive bench books for every division and hands-on training that empowers judges to succeed the moment they are assigned. Judicial excellence begins with knowledge, and knowledge should never be out of reach.

Guardians of Justice: Upholding Judicial Independence and Democracy

The public must trust that our courts operate without fear, favor, or political interference. I will champion judicial independence and stand firm in protecting the rule of law. In a time of heightened political division, we need leadership that fortifies the judiciary as an impartial guardian of democracy.

Restoring Public Trust in Our Courts

Too many people walk away from the courthouse feeling confused, discouraged, or unseen. I want to change that. I will work to restore public confidence by promoting consistency across divisions, improving transparency in our operations, and building stronger relationships with the communities we serve. When the public understands and believes in the court system, justice becomes more accessible — and more meaningful.

Judicial Well-Being: Addressing the Weight of the Robe

We don’t talk enough about what judges carry. Day after day, we hear cases involving trauma, loss, and life-altering consequences — from homicides to evictions to the separation of families. That weight doesn’t disappear when the gavel drops. I will prioritize judicial well-being by creating a culture that acknowledges the emotional toll of our work, encourages peer support, and treats mental health as a necessary part of our professional lives. When judges are cared for, justice is better served.

This campaign isn’t about a title — it’s about a mission. I want to lead this court into its next chapter with clarity, compassion, and courage. Our judges deserve it. Our communities deserve it. And the time is now.