Chicago Mayor Under Scrutiny Over UNDECLARD Gifts

Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson faces accusations of improper gift documentation and restricting access to City Hall’s “gift room,” raising concerns about transparency and accountability in his administration.

At a Glance

  • Office of Inspector General (OIG) report reveals 70% of 380 gifts lack donor information
  • Gifts include luxury items like Hugo Boss cufflinks and a Gucci tote bag
  • OIG personnel were denied access to inspect the City Hall “gift room”
  • Mayor Johnson denies wrongdoing, claiming gifts are properly logged
  • Concerns raised about potential influence of gift-givers on city affairs

Controversial Gift Practices Uncovered

The Office of the Inspector General (OIG) in Chicago has released a report that puts Mayor Brandon Johnson’s administration under scrutiny. The report details the acceptance of numerous gifts, including luxury items, without proper documentation. This lack of transparency has raised eyebrows among city officials and residents alike.

According to the OIG report, nearly 70% of the 380 logged gifts from February 2022 to March 2024 do not list the donor’s identity. These gifts range from designer accessories to electronics, accumulated under both Johnson’s and former Mayor Lori Lightfoot’s administrations.

Restricted Access and Denial of Wrongdoing

Adding to the controversy, OIG personnel were reportedly denied access to inspect the so-called “gift room” at City Hall. When attempting to access the room, they encountered police and were told to make an appointment.

“For many decades, this city has given people no reason to trust things that happen behind closed doors, and what we have here is gifts being exchanged, perhaps literally, in a windowless room in City Hall with no public accountability, no transparency,” Inspector General Debrah Witzburg said.

Mayor Johnson, however, firmly denies any wrongdoing. He maintains that all gifts are properly logged and that there is a process in place for handling them. Johnson also expressed confusion about the existence of a specific “gift room,” stating, “I don’t think there’s a room, [but] if people want a tour of this room, I’ll sign up because I’ve never been to it myself.”

In response to the controversy, the Mayor’s office has committed to transitioning to new policies for gift acceptance and inspection access. The Board of Ethics has recommended that the Mayor’s office adhere to the Governmental Ethics Ordinance and make gifts accessible for public viewing.