Mayor Johnson Appoints Rachel Cohen as Communication Director

Mayor Brandon Johnson announced the appointment of Rachel Cohen, a well-known activist and social media influencer, as his administration’s communication director. This move indicates Johnson’s strategy to connect with Chicagoans on social media platforms like Instagram and TikTok, carrying forward his progressive message. Cohen has over 700,000 followers, emphasizing the need to reach people where they are in today’s changing media landscape.

Johnson highlighted Cohen’s skill in simplifying complex issues and making the administration’s work accessible. Cohen is recognized for her short videos discussing leftist political views. Her prominence grew significantly last year when she left Chicago-based law firm Skadden due to its pro-bono work agreement with President Donald Trump’s administration. Cohen protested against Trump’s Operation Midway Blitz immigration policy and supported progressive candidates such as New York Mayor Zoran Mamdani and Michigan’s Abdul El-Sayed for the U.S. Senate.

Recently, Cohen collaborated with Johnson’s political team to produce videos supporting the mayor without compensation, as she confirmed to the Tribune. She expressed her honor in joining Johnson’s administration and committed to ensuring Chicagoans benefit from the resources and programs the mayor has introduced.

Cohen replaces Erin Connelly, who was instrumental in reinstating regular press briefings and expanding the mayor’s social media presence during her tenure. Cohen, 32, graduated from Harvard Law School and was recognized as one of Chicago Magazine’s 2025 “Chicagoans of the Year.” Her experience as a digital communications consultant for progressive initiatives lacks prior formal leadership in communications.

This appointment positions Cohen to guide Chicagoans through engaging and understanding progressive policies while encouraging community involvement. She announced her new role across her social platforms, explaining her decision to forgo other job offers for the City Hall opportunity. Cohen plans to demonetize her social media accounts and limit her postings on city electoral politics. She voiced belief that Mayor Johnson’s achievements in taxation reform, addressing crime’s root causes, and expanding affordable housing are underappreciated by the public.