Walter Redmond Burnett was selected to take over for his father and lead the 27th Ward as alderperson, Mayor Brandon Johnson announced Friday afternoon.
Walter “Red” Burnett’s father is recently retired Ald. Walter Burnett, who publicly vouched for his 29-year-old son to inherit his seat.
Johnson made the decision to choose the 27th Ward-raised former investment banker after “a community-engagement process led by the 27th Ward Selection Committee, which recommended Burnett to the mayor,” a news release said.
The mayor’s pick still needs to be approved by the City Council in a vote.
“The 27th Ward deserves a leader who is well-attuned to the challenges we face as we continue to grow and strengthen our communities,” Johnson said in the release. “Red embodies the values, resilience, and vision of the 27th Ward. With his long-standing commitment to public service, equity, and young people, I have no doubt he will be a dedicated and effective advocate of his community.”
The elder Burnett, who retired this year after 30 years on the City Council, where he chaired the Zoning Committee and served as vice mayor, told the Sun-Times that his son’s appointment would not be nepotism.
“Don’t judge him based on him being my son. Judge him based on what he can bring to the table and what he can do for the ward and how he can help to continue these great things that we have going on,” Walter Burnett said.
The younger Burnett returned to Chicago in 2022 and has since served as principal of Hannibal Valley Co., consulting on real estate, hospitality and entertainment projects.
“I am honored to have received this appointment. The opportunity to serve the 27th Ward is an immense privilege that I do not take lightly,” Walter R. Burnett said in the release. “Throughout my professional journey I’ve maintained a steadfast commitment to community advancement — working alongside civic leaders, private sector partners and grassroots organizations to deliver projects that generate lasting impact and serve the public good. This foundation informs my continued commitment to ensuring our neighborhoods remain vibrant, inclusive, and positioned for sustainable success.”