Mayor Johnson Defends Corporate Head Tax After Democratic Wins
Emboldened by the recent Democratic election victories, Mayor Brandon Johnson strongly defended his proposed corporate head tax on Thursday. Despite opposition from Governor JB Pritzker, business leaders, and over half of the City Council, Johnson remains committed to the measure.
Johnson Cites Democratic Success Nationwide
Johnson pointed to a wave of Democratic wins across the country, including Zohran Mamdani, the mayor-elect of New York City, as evidence supporting his approach. He emphasized the need to “center our politics around people, particularly working people.”
“That’s what people ran on and that’s what they won on. They literally won on the model that we’re building here in Chicago.”
Frustration Over Defending the Tax
During Thursday’s City Hall news conference, Johnson expressed his frustration with having to defend the head tax, which he estimates would amount to about one-third of 1% for affected corporations. He argued the tax is necessary as poor and working-class individuals urgently need government support for essential living needs.
“People want government, and particularly Democrats, to stand up for working people. We are the global capital of the world. Working class was defined here.”
Key Points on the Head Tax
- Opposed by Governor Pritzker, business leaders, and a majority of the City Council
- Estimated impact on companies: about 0.33%
- Centered on helping working-class and poor residents
Summary: Mayor Johnson firmly supports the corporate head tax, viewing it as essential for aiding working people despite significant opposition from state and local leaders.