Cook County’s MWRD: Democratic and Republican Candidates Challenge Roles

The Metropolitan Water Reclamation District (MWRD) has been safeguarding Cook County’s water supply since 1889. The agency addresses flooding and manages wastewater treatment. It partners with local governments, distributing irrigation barrels to capture rain and handling prescription drug disposal to protect drinking water.

In the 2026 primary, an endorsement went to three incumbent Democrats vying for reelection to six-year terms: Precious Brady-Davis, Eira Corral Sepúlveda, and Beth McElroy Kirkwood. A progressive lawyer and environmentalist, Sarah Bury, entered the race with a strong grassroots campaign. Brady-Davis and Sepúlveda achieved clear victories, while McElroy Kirkwood, targeted by Bury as the weakest candidate, still succeeded with less support.

Now, three Republican candidates, Michelle Pennington, Timothy Rueckert, and Jill Shestokas, have stepped forward to challenge the incumbents. This competition benefits Cook County, as the Illinois GOP struggles with President Donald Trump’s unpopularity and a shortage of competent candidates statewide. The Republicans present themselves as running mates, having collaborated to counter a Democratic attempt to remove them from the ballot. Their backgrounds and ambitions, however, differ significantly.

Pennington, who operates a real-estate consultancy, previously challenged Cook County Clerk Monica Gordon in 2024. She criticizes MWRD’s expenditure on Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) programs and proposes significant budget cuts. However, her opinions may clash with fellow board members. Pennington’s idea to reduce the legislative team could hinder collaboration on local water projects.

Rueckert, with a law-enforcement background, served as Highway Commissioner of Northfield Township for eight years. He emphasizes bringing an independent perspective to board decisions. When questioned about Pennington’s proposals, he expressed interest in evaluating each program before making cuts. Yet, managing a township differs from the comprehensive regional challenges MWRD faces, raising concerns about his preparedness.

Shestokas was the primary spokesperson for MWRD from 2007 to 2010. She simplified agency decisions for the public and media and contributed to an international water association. Shestokas suggests practical improvements like a public project dashboard and after-action reviews post-storms. She aims to hold the board accountable for delayed projects and unmet financial expectations.

The main hurdle for Republican candidates is their opponents’ strength. Brady-Davis has been a significant figure in Cook County politics since her MWRD appointment by Gov. JB Pritzker. Corral Sepúlveda shows competence since first receiving an endorsement in 2020. Both merit reelection.

The choice between McElroy Kirkwood and Shestokas remains challenging. McElroy Kirkwood’s dedication and extensive public service record is notable. Yet, Shestokas offers potential as a Republican watchdog with insider knowledge. It’s advised to opt for Brady-Davis, Sepúlveda, and Shestokas.

For more endorsements for the 2026 Illinois general election, visit the Tribune Editorial Board’s page.