Chicago Mayor Faces Scrutiny Over Unreported Luxury Gifts and Restricted Inspector Access

Inspector General's report reveals Brandon Johnson and predecessor Lori Lightfoot accepted expensive gifts while blocking oversight of a City Hall 'gift room.'

Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson accepted 236 gifts, including designer handbags, luxury cufflinks, and personalized items, citing they were received 'on behalf of the city.'
Nearly 70% of the 380 gifts logged since February 2022 lack details about the gift-givers, raising transparency concerns.
Inspector General Deborah Witzburg's investigators were repeatedly denied access to the 'gift room' at City Hall, with police blocking entry and inspections requiring appointments.
The report highlights an informal 35-year practice exempting Chicago mayors from stricter gift reporting rules, which critics argue undermines accountability.
Johnson dismissed the findings as a 'mischaracterization,' asserting that the gifts are logged and not for personal use, but questions about ethical compliance persist.