Affordable-housing expert Juanita Irizarry launched her candidacy for commissioner on the Cook County Board of Review’s 1st District, on Monday, Oct. 20. At the news conference, leaders from Illinois’ Latino and progressive communities stood next to her, including U.S. Reps. Jesús “Chuy” García, D-Chicago, and Delia Ramirez, D-Chicago. District 1 includes the South, Southwest and Northwest Sides, as well as Cook County’s west, northwest and southwest suburbs. Irizarry, a Democrat, vowed to fight skyrocketing property taxes that are driving Cook County residents out of their homes. She drew a sharp contrast between herself and her opponent, who has been supported by corporate interests. Irizarry’s supporters include state Rep. Theresa Mah, former Cook County Clerk David Orr, Ald. Jessie Fuentes (26th), Ald. Daniel La Spata (1st), Ald. Julia Ramirez (12th), Ald. Michael Rodriguez (22nd), Ald. Andre Vasquez (40th) and many more.  A longtime fighter for affordable housing development, Irizarry champions homeowners and renters against gentrification and displacement. She has overcome housing instability and displacement herself. Prioritizing a balanced property tax system and ensuring home affordability is key for Irizarry. Large commercial property appeals have pushed more burden onto Cook County residents; hardest hit were low-income communities with people of color. For more please visit juanitairizarry.com.