Chicago, IL - A coalition of Latino elected officials from throughout Chicago and Cook County on Monday came together to endorse Democratic candidate for Assessor, Joseph Berrios.

“Joe Berrios has spent his career in public service working to level the playing field for the minority communities,” said U.S. Congressman Luis V. Gutierrez (D-4th). “He will continue that work when he becomes Cook County’s next assessor, making sure that everyone is treated equally, no matter their color or income level.”

 Berrios, who won the Democratic primary in February, was honored to be endorsed by the group during a press conference at the Hotel Allegro.

“I have always strived to make the Latino community proud. This endorsement reflects their belief that I am doing a good job, and would serve them well as Cook County Assessor,” Berrios said. “I won’t let them down. While my opponent admittedly ignores minorities, I will continue outreach into the Latino and African-American communities not only until Election Day, but after I win on November 2nd.”

State Rep. Lisa Hernandez (D-24th) stressed that Berrios has met with constituents throughout the city and suburbs over the past few months.

 ”He has been on the west side, listening to concerns about property taxes and fair assessments,” Hernandez said. “And I know he’ll continue to be this inclusive when he is elected.”

 State Senator Tony Munoz agreed, saying Berrios had been a frequent visitor to the south side while campaigning. “Joe understands that he will be Cook County assessor – not just assessor for one part of Cook County. That’s what we need in a leader,” Munoz said.

 If elected, Berrios, currently a commissioner on the Cook County Board of Review, would be the first minority Assessor. He was the first Hispanic state legislator when he became a member of the Illinois House of Representatives in 1982, where he served three terms. He is also the first Hispanic to serve as chairman of the Cook County Democratic Party.

Also endorsing Berrios on Monday were: Illinois Senator Iris Martinez; Illinois Senator William (Willie) Delgado; Illinois Rep. Eddie Acevedo; Rep. Luis Arroyo; Rep. Maria A. (Toni) Berrios; Rep. Cynthia Soto; Rep. Susana Mendoza; Chicago Alderman Rey Colon; Ald. Ray Suarez; Ald. Roberto Maldonado; Ald. Ariel Reboyras; Ald. Proco (Joe) Moreno; Ald. Ricardo Munoz; Ald. Daniel (Danny) Solis; Cook County Commissioner Mario Moreno; Commissioner Edwin Reyes; Metropolitan Water Reclamation District Commissioner Frank Avila; Committeeman Charlie Hernandez; and Committeeman Jesse Ruben Juarez.

For more information about the Berrios campaign, visit www.electjoeberrios.com.