As Cook County Grieves Clerk Karen Yarbrough, Plans Begin to Select Her Successor

 The county's Democratic Party will select an interim successor for Yarbrough, who had over two years remaining in her term.

The Cook County Democratic Party will appoint an interim successor to Clerk Karen Yarbrough, who passed away on Sunday following an illness.


As Cook County grieves the loss of Clerk Karen Yarbrough, preparations are underway to select her successor.

 Yarbrough, a Democrat and experienced legislator, had over two years remaining in her second term. The Cook County Democratic Party will vote to designate her interim replacement. However, out of respect for Yarbrough's family, the timeline for this decision will not be announced until after her funeral, according to Jacob Kaplan, the executive director of the Democratic Party.


The decision regarding a special election for Yarbrough's permanent successor is still under consideration, stated Kaplan. However, he emphasized that according to the law, a special election must be held during the next general election, scheduled for November 5, if there are more than 28 months remaining in the term.


Yarbrough passed away on Sunday, surrounded by her family, following hospitalization for a severe medical condition, stated Sally Daly, a spokesperson for the county clerk’s office. Yarbrough, a prominent figure in local politics, held positions as a state lawmaker and notably became the first Black individual and woman to serve as Cook County Clerk. Additionally, she served as the treasurer of the Cook County Democratic Party. Kristen Schorsch reports on public health and Cook County government for WBEZ.



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