Chicago Sun-Times Calls for Samantha Steele's Resignation

The Chicago Sun-Times has called for Cook County Board of Review Commissioner Samantha Steele to resign, emphasizing, “A major part of holding public office is the ability to maintain a sense of professionalism—whether the official is on or off duty.” Steele's recent DUI arrest and her behavior during the incident have seriously breached public trust.

Cook County Board of Review Commissioner Samantha Steele is seen during her arrest on November 11, 2024 in Andersonville, captured on a Chicago Police Department body camera.

Steele was arrested on November 11 after crashing her vehicle on Chicago's North Side. The Sun-Times editorial described her actions captured by police body camera footage as "embarrassing," detailing her repeated refusals to cooperate with officers, refusal to take a sobriety test, and an attempt to leverage her elected position as a threat to police, saying, "You don’t want that! I’m an elected official."

The Chicago Sun-Times editorial argued these actions show Steele is "unfit to hold elected office," especially given the significant powers of her role on the Board of Review, which involves ruling on property tax appeals. The editorial emphasized, “Taxpayers and residents deserve to know the right people have been entrusted, and the people in those positions have to understand there’s a standard of behavior to uphold.”

Drawing historical parallels, the Sun-Times referenced the 1997 case of former Illinois Supreme Court Chief Judge Thomas Heiple, who resigned as chief justice following similar misconduct. Although not impeached, the legislature labeled Heiple's behavior as “arrogant” and “imperious.” The editorial concluded Steele’s behavior is comparably unacceptable.

The editorial also highlighted ongoing issues surrounding Steele, including a federal whistleblower lawsuit filed by former aide Frank Calabrese and criticism over hiring practices. These combined factors further damage her credibility and ability to serve effectively.

The Sun-Times declared Steele should publicly acknowledge her wrongdoing, stating clearly, “I’m now a former elected official,” and immediately step down. The paper argued this resignation is essential, as Cook County deserves officials who consistently demonstrate integrity, accountability, and respect for the law.

Link to editorial : https://chicago.suntimes.com/editorials/2024/11/26/samantha-steele-resign-dui-police-north-side-traffic-stop-cook-county-board-review-commissioner