Chicago Mayor Pressures CPS CEO Amid Financial and Political Turmoil

Mayor Brandon Johnson's push to oust Pedro Martinez risks further straining relations with Governor Pritzker and destabilizing the school system.

Mayor Johnson is pressuring the Chicago Board of Education to fire CPS CEO Pedro Martinez, citing resistance to a high-interest loan for a new teachers contract and pension payment.
Johnson's move could backfire, potentially alienating Governor Pritzker and leading to CPS bankruptcy, reminiscent of the 1979 fiscal crisis.
The Chicago Teachers Union has accused Martinez of planning school closures, prompting CPS to propose a moratorium on such actions until 2027.
Martinez has denied the closure plans, calling the union's claims a misinformation campaign, while facing a vote of no confidence from the CTU.
The turmoil comes as CPS faces significant financial deficits, with upcoming public bargaining sessions and a crucial Board of Education vote on the moratorium.