Cook County’s Water Reclamation District: Democratic Success and Republican Challenges

Since its establishment in 1889, the Metropolitan Water Reclamation District (MWRD) has been safeguarding Cook County’s water supply. The agency combats floods and handles wastewater treatment. It’s a significant organization that collaborates with local governments and manages programs like rainwater barrel distribution and the safe disposal of prescription drugs to protect drinking water.

In the 2026 primary, endorsements were given to the three incumbent Democrats seeking reelection for six-year terms: Precious Brady-Davis, Eira Corral Sepúlveda, and Beth McElroy Kirkwood. Democratic challenger Sarah Bury, an environmentalist and lawyer, brought vigor to her campaign. Brady-Davis and Sepúlveda achieved clear victories. McElroy Kirkwood faced targeted criticism from Bury but maintained enough support to remain successful.

Three determined Republicans have entered the race to challenge the incumbents. This competition benefits Cook County, where the Illinois GOP faces challenges due to the unpopularity of former President Donald Trump and a lack of strong candidates statewide. Republican candidates Michelle Pennington, Timothy Rueckert, and Jill Shestokas are coordinating their efforts. They also united to counter a Democratic challenge to their ballot positions.

Pennington, who manages a real-estate consultancy, previously ran against Cook County Clerk Monica Gordon in 2024. Although endorsed, Gordon secured a landslide. Pennington’s current campaign critiques alleged overspending on the MWRD’s Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives and proposes sharp cuts in these areas. She also aims to downsize the legislative team essential for partnerships on local water projects.

Rueckert, a former Highway Commissioner for Northfield Township, boasts experience in flood mitigation and drainage in collaboration with the MWRD. In contrast to Pennington’s broad proposals, Rueckert prefers examining individual programs before endorsing cuts. Though experienced locally, he’s not fully versed in the extensive challenges of the MWRD.

Shestokas served as MWRD’s chief spokesperson from 2007 to 2010. She communicated complex agency decisions to the public and contributed to international water associations. Shestokas brings implementable ideas, such as a transparent project dashboard and reviews after major storms to assess and improve responses.

The Republican candidates face formidable incumbents. Brady-Davis is a prominent figure in local politics and has made strides since her appointment by Governor JB Pritzker. Corral Sepúlveda has served effectively since 2020. Both deserve another term. The real decision is between McElroy Kirkwood and Shestokas. Although Kirkwood is dedicated and experienced, Shestokas’s insider knowledge offers potential for accountability on the board.

We recommend voters endorse Brady-Davis, Sepúlveda, and Shestokas. The presence of a Republican with Shestokas’s insights could ensure greater transparency and honesty within the MWRD.

For further endorsements on the 2026 Illinois general election, visit the Tribune Editorial Board’s full list. To express your views, submit a letter to the editor or email [email protected].