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I represent the 1st Ward in the City of Chicago. I was first elected to the City Council in 2003, and am now serving my second term.

I serve on seven City Council committees: Economic, Capital and Technology Development; Energy, Environmental Protection and Public Utilities; Historical Landmark Preservation; Committees, Rules and Ethics; Parks and Recreation; Special Events and Cultural Affairs; and Transportation and Public Way. I also sit on the Illinois Broadband Deployment Council.

During my first two terms, I have distinguished myself as a champion of progressive public policy. I have introduced and passed legislation in the areas of consumer protection, land-use and development, banking, healthcare, and government operations/management.

I have also initiated sustainable development measures to address environmental protection and economic development. I have spearheaded the Green Exchange development, which is a first of its kind green business community designed to promote sustainable building practices and a green economy.

I have a distinct vision for the 1st Ward. With the rapid residential and commercial growth in the area, I have successfully fought to achieve long-term community investment and sustainable urban development. Under my leadership, millions of dollars have been invested in the 1st Ward, making its neighborhoods stronger and more vibrant.

I sit on the nonprofit board of Community Health, a local clinic that provides free healthcare to the poor and uninsured. I previously worked as a congressional aide for Congressman Luis V. Gutierrez and as a prosecutor for the Office of the Cook County State's Attorney.

I hold a law degree from George Washington University Law School, where I was awarded honors for my clinical work on immigration and human rights litigation in political asylum cases. I earned my bachelor's degree with honors in political science from Dominican University. My wife Georgina, my son Teddy, and I reside in the Wicker Park neighborhood of the 1st Ward.