Eileen O'Neill Burke takes office as Cook County State's Attorney

In the United States, Eileen O'Neill Burke was sworn in as the new Cook County State's Attorney on December 2, 2024, marking a significant change in leadership for the office that had been held by Kim Foxx for the past eight years. O'Neill Burke won the position decisively, securing approximately 67.4% of the vote against her Republican challenger Bob Fioretti, who garnered only 28.2%. The election was notable as it was the first time in 16 years that the position became available, which likely contributed to the strong voter turnout and support for O'Neill Burke. O'Neill Burke's campaign focused on crime reduction and public safety, emphasizing the need to remove guns from the streets and to address the underlying causes of crime. Her commitment to creating a safer Chicago was a central theme in her messaging, resonating with voters frustrated by the increasing violence in the city. On the day of her inauguration, she outlined some immediate goals for her office, including a promise to increase transparency regarding the impact of Illinois's recent changes to cash bail policies. To prepare for her role, O'Neill Burke announced three transition co-chairs, including Alderman Pat Dowell, Anthony Driver, and Arne Duncan. These individuals will lead nine subcommittees which are designed to involve various advocacy organizations and community members in shaping her office's agenda. This collaborative approach suggests O'Neill Burke's intention to rely on community input and expertise to tackle crime and implement reforms. Overall, O'Neill Burke's election and inauguration signal a new direction for the Cook County State's Attorney's Office. With a heavy emphasis on proactive measures to combat crime and a desire for greater accountability, she hopes to address the concerns of the citizens of Cook County while building on the challenges her predecessor faced, particularly in relation to public safety and community trust.