In Thornton Township, Illinois, the decision was swift as Supervisor Tiffany Henyard faced a setback in her reelection bid on Tuesday.
At a crowded gym in Homewood-Flossmoor Park District, cheers broke out as the Democratic Party Caucus of Thornton Township voted to exclude the embattled current Township Supervisor Henyard from the April ballot.
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Illinois State Sen. Napoleon Harris is now nominated as the Democratic challenger for that position.
Reflecting on the decision, Burt Odelson, Harris’ attorney, commented, “It was evident from the community’s reaction tonight – they clearly expressed their relief in finally seeing her removed.”
It was the first time in 30 years that township Democrats used a caucus to determine who will be on the ballot.
Those seeking the nomination for township supervisor needed all eight people for their slate, which includes the supervisor, the highway director, the clerk, the assessor, and four trustees.
Henyard did not have a certified assessor on her ticket, deeming her invalid for consideration.
Current Thornton Township Trustee Chris Gonzalez earned the Democratic nomination for a trustee spot under Harris’ slate.
“We want to get the township back on track, back where we feel it should be,” Gonzalez said.
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Henyard was appointed Thornton Township supervisor in 2022 and serves as the mayor of Dolton.
Tuesday night’s decision comes as Henyard has faced criticism over township spending while also disputing with trustees.
“What’s currently going on, I’m disappointed. But what I’m looking forward in the future is hope,” said Thornton Township resident Christine Boone.
Henyard can still run for Dolton mayor, but in order to run for Thornton Township supervisor in April, she will have to be a write-in candidate.
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