
Toni Preckwinkle
President
Cook County Board of Commissioners
Chicago, IL USA
“Show up. Be somebody that people can count on.”
Cook County Board of Commissioners
Chicago, IL USA
“Show up. Be somebody that people can count on.”
President
I’m responsible for the public health and public safety of Cook County, Illinois.
An example of a typical day for me starts at a press conference where I announce grants for a community or public service organization. As most people in politics, I might attend a memorial or funeral. Then I'll spend the rest of the day in meetings regarding things like tax funds and community development. All in all, my work primarily consists of meetings and press conferences.
Here's the first step for everyone
If you want to work in politics, I suggest getting started by working on a political campaign. I started my career in politics by working on the political campaign for a city council candidate when I was 16 years old. There are a variety of different things you can do to contribute to a campaign, so you're bound to find a role that matches your interests and personality. Another way to get involved in politics is to find an internship in an elected official's office.
"I'm not cut out for this high-level school. Maybe I should just go to school back home instead."