Chicago Mayor Opens Gift Room to Public After Ethical Concerns Raised

Mayor Brandon Johnson announces new transparency measures, including public access to City Hall's gift inventory and regular donations to charity.

Mayor Brandon Johnson faced scrutiny over a previously restricted 'gift room' in City Hall, containing items received on behalf of the city.
Gifts included high-end items like Hugo Boss cufflinks and a Montblanc pen, as well as lower-value souvenirs like mugs, T-shirts, and books.
Republican Rep. Brandon Gill criticized the mayor during a House hearing, linking the lack of transparency to broader concerns about sanctuary city policies.
Following public pressure and an inspector general’s report, the administration implemented new guidelines, including an online gift log and quarterly public access to the room.
The city plans to donate many of the gifts to charities, with items such as books potentially going to schools and libraries.