Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson has been using campaign funds to cover hair and makeup expenses for himself and other aides. While he is not the only Mayor who has done this, he has spent a more significant amount. $30,000 in campaign donations have been paid over 15 months, according to the Chicago Suntimes. Illinois Election Law does not state that this is illegal but does not specify it as a valid campaign disbursement.
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One of the election attorneys who spoke to NBC Chicago stated that the law doesn’t explicitly prohibit the use of campaign funds for grooming expenses, which would likely work in Johnson’s favor in an argument. “I think the key is the law does not prohibit expenditures from grooming expenses,” he said. “It’s clear that how you look is as least as important as what you say in any political situation.”
A spokesperson from NBC 5 Chicago was able to sit down with the Mayor and clarify how his make-up artist and hair salon is paid through campaign donations. Former Mayor Lori Lightfoot only spent $8,000.00 on her hair and make-up campaign when she was in office.
The Illinois State Board of Elections provided a written statement to NBC Chicago.
“If you’re making an appearance as mayor of Chicago, and you hire a make-up and hair artist for the event, that would most likely be a legitimate use,” spokesman Matt Dietrich said. “But if you’re using them for a strictly social event, there might be stronger grounds for a complaint. You also can’t pay more than fair market value for goods and services.”
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Brandon Johnson uses these funds for public appearances, events, media segments, and other campaign uses. He would not be violating any Illinois election codes.
