Chicago, IL – Reform Alderman Scott Waguespack became the latest in a series of progressive leaders and organizations to back James Cappleman’s campaign for 46th Ward Alderman.  Cappleman, a social worker, former teacher and community advocate, is in the April 5th run-off election to replace retiring Alderman Helen Shiller.  Waguespack is known as one the leading reformers on the Chicago City Council, respected for his strong stance against the City’s controversial parking meter lease deal. 

“I believe James Cappleman is the right candidate to help reform Chicago City’s Hall,” said Waguespack.  “I know he’ll be ready on day one to fight corruption and support stronger ethics measures.  I also know that James has the experience to fight crime and create businesses and jobs in his community.”

“I’m honored to have Alderman Waguespack’s endorsement” said Cappleman. “I look forward to working with him to fight for reform, ethics and transparency in city government.”

48th Ward Alderman Mary Ann Smith, whose ward borders the 46th Ward and also includes portions of Uptown, endorsed Cappleman because of his knowledge of the community and his ability to bring people together to bring positive change to Uptown. 

Cappleman is also endorsed by Congresswoman Jan Schakowsky, State Senator Heather Steans, the 46th Ward Democrats, 46th Ward Democratic Committeeman Tom Sharpe, former State Senator Carol Ronen, Illinois State Representative Deb Mell, Metropolitan Water Reclamation District Commissioners Debra Shore and Mariyana Spyropoulos, every former 46th Ward Aldermanic candidate who has made an endorsement in the race, LGBT advocacy organizations Equality Illinois and Gay and Lesbian Victory Fund, clean government organization IVI-IPO, the Chicago Teachers Union, pro-choice organization Personal PAC, Northside Democracy for America, National Democracy for America, National Association of Social Workers and the Chicago Sun-Times, which wrote:

“In the runoff, we’re backing James Cappleman, a former teacher and social worker with deep roots in this fiercely independent ward.

Cappleman has a broad and detailed vision for attracting businesses to the ward, fighting crime and giving residents a greater say in ward decisions. Cappleman and opponent Mary Anne “Molly” Phelan, a real estate and tax attorney, don’t differ significantly on the issues but do in experience… we prefer Cappleman because we believe he would be more independent. Cappleman already has many long-standing, constructive relationships in the ward and has displayed a willingness to reach out to those with whom he disagrees.”