Johnson's office faces controversy after reports reveal that top political advisor voted in Texas
CHICAGO - Mayor Brandon Johnson’s office is facing new controversy after reports revealed that his top political advisor, Jason Lee, may have violated local residency laws by voting in Texas in the 2024 election.
The revelation, first reported by the Chicago Tribune on Friday, raises questions about whether Lee committed felony voter fraud by casting a ballot in Texas while maintaining a Chicago residence.
Local law requires city employees to be residents of Chicago, and it’s unclear if Lee's actions violate that mandate.
According to the report, Lee — who lives in Chicago — was registered to vote and cast a ballot in Texas. Lee explained that his vote was for his sister, who was running for a seat previously held by their late mother, Sheila Jackson Lee, a longtime Democratic politician.
Despite his Texas vote, Lee helped elect Mayor Johnson and listed a Chicago address as his official residence.
In response to the reports, Johnson acknowledged the situation and stated that Texas authorities are investigating the matter. He noted that he would have more to say when more information comes to light.
The situation raises legal questions.
Under Illinois law, a person can vote in a state where they do not live, as long as their intent is to return to their home state. However, city law mandates that Lee’s primary residence must be in Chicago. If he indeed voted legally in Texas, it could suggest a violation of local law.
Legal experts, including attorney Burt Odelson, suggested a potential solution. Odelson proposed that Lee could be terminated from his position and then rehired as an independent contractor, which would exempt him from the residency requirement.
However, the city’s ordinance explicitly prohibits temporary residency arrangements designed to bypass the rule.
As the investigation continues, the spotlight remains on Lee’s actions and what consequences, if any, Mayor Johnson and the city will impose.