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Chief Apostle McCoy Endorses Bob Fioretti for Cook County State’s Attorney Calls for Debate with Opponent

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Chief Apostle McCoy Endorses Bob Fioretti for Cook County State’s Attorney Calls for Debate with Opponent (Chicago Heights, IL) – In a significant development in the race for Cook County State’s Attorney, Chief Apostle William McCoy, head of the Faith-Based Network, has announced his endorsement of Attorney Bob Fioretti. This comes just days after civil rights leader Rev. Jesse L. Jackson, Sr. also threw his support behind Fioretti, a former alderman running as a Republican against retired Judge Eileen O’Neill Burke.

McCoy, who leads over 6,700 religious leaders across Illinois and beyond, confirmed his backing of Fioretti during an interview with *The Chicago Crusader* on Tuesday, October 8. He cited concerns regarding Burke’s role in a controversial 1993 case in which she helped convict an 11-year-old boy whose confession was later ruled coerced by police. The conviction was overturned by a federal judge, sparking allegations of racial bias surrounding Burke’s handling of the case.

Allegations of Eileen Burke Being Racist

“Everybody is hearing this reputation she has about being a racist. That’s what’s pulling everybody away from her, and Fioretti doesn’t have that background,” McCoy said, referring to the case of A.M., an African American boy prosecuted by Burke in the murder of an elderly woman. Although Burke has defended her actions, saying she followed the evidence provided by police, McCoy and other critics believe the case reveals troubling aspects of her judgment and approach.

In response, McCoy is organizing a debate between Fioretti and Burke, to be held at the St. Paul Church of God in Christ, led by Elder Kevin A. Ford. Ford confirmed he will serve as moderator for the debate, which is tentatively scheduled for October 17 or 18, pending Burke’s confirmation. McCoy has promised to leave an empty chair with Burke’s name if she declines the invitation.

McCoy’s endorsement of Fioretti, a former Democrat who switched parties, represents a bold move within Chicago’s faith community. Despite Fioretti’s Republican affiliation, McCoy explained that he trusts Fioretti’s record and leadership. “I’m a Democrat, but I am using my choice of Fioretti after hearing what my constituents are saying about Burke, who is a racist,” McCoy said. “Fioretti just got his feet wet. He doesn’t know anything about the Republican Party.”

Reverend Jesse Jackson Sr. Lead the Way

This endorsement follows a strong statement from Rev. Jesse Jackson, who praised Fioretti’s years of service as an advocate, civil rights lawyer, and alderman. “We need Bob Fioretti as Cook County State’s Attorney,” Jackson said in a statement. “This is not about party labels. This is about electing our community’s best State’s Attorney, who will temper justice with mercy.”

Despite support from McCoy and Jackson, Fioretti’s campaign faces opposition from some key figures. Ald. David Moore (17th) warned that Democratic ward committeemen who endorse Fioretti risk sanctions from the party. Pastor Michael Eaddy, chairman of the General Council of Pastors and Elders of the Church of Christ, also declined to support Fioretti, citing discomfort with his party affiliation.

Fioretti is no stranger to Chicago politics, having previously served as alderman of the 2nd Ward and run for several offices, including mayor, State’s Attorney, and Cook County Board President. His latest bid, however, marks his first major campaign as a Republican, a move that has drawn both support and skepticism in the politically charged race.

Potential Debate

As the race intensifies, the potential debate at Elder Ford’s church promises to be a pivotal moment. Should Burke decline, McCoy’s symbolic empty chair could underscore the growing divide in the contest for Cook County’s top prosecutor.

Chief Apostle McCoy Endorses Bob Fioretti for Cook County State’s Attorney Calls for Debate with Opponent

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