Calling it quits after 20 years on City Council, Brookins talks about betrayal

Ald. Howard Brookins (21st) says he could "write a whole book called 'The Backstabbers'" about Chicago politics. That's how often he said he's been double-crossed and turned on by colleagues and allies whose support he had counted on.

"People who were my friends in office and fraternity brothers subsequently ran against me. A ward superintendent who was off helping another alderman in another ward for reelection, understanding that, if I didn't win, he would probably not be the ward superintendent," Brookins told the Sun-Times.

On Wednesday, Brookins, who turns 59 next month, announced plans to walk away from the backstabbing, one-way street of a world that is Chicago politics. He will serve out the remainder of his fifth term and leave when the new — and undoubtedly more independent — City Council is sworn in next May.

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Calling it quits after 20 years on City Council, Brookins says he could write a book — about betrayal

"I never wanted to be one to overstay my welcome. I just believe, after 20 years, it's the appropriate time to get out — especially with all that I accomplished the last 19 years." said Ald. Howard Brookins, 58, wrapping up his fifth term on the Council.

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