Regardless of how you may feel about the subject, the reality in Illinois is that, sometimes, politics and criminal law directly affect one another. On certain levels, of course, you probably realize this to be true, as representatives, senators, and governors must be elected before they can draft legislation, amend and vote on bills, and enact new laws. Politics and public opinion can also directly impact the application of the law, as many other positions within the government are also filled by popular election. Using the power of the vote this week, the people of Cook County have spoken by voting out incumbent Cook County State’s Attorney Anita Alvarez, effectively deciding that it is time for a new chief prosecutor.
Role of the State’s Attorney
Cook County, Illinois, is the largest consolidated court district in the entire United States, serving a population of more than 5.2 million residents. The Cook County State’s Attorney is tasked with representing the people of Illinois in prosecuting crimes committed within the jurisdiction of the county court. The State’s Attorney’s Office operates as a branch of county government and currently employs more than 900 Assistant State’s Attorneys who help in the prosecution of criminal activity throughout the county’s six municipal districts. State’s Attorneys are elected by popular vote to a term of four years.
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