Mayor Brandon Johnson of Chicago has shuffled his senior staff, promoting Ronnie Reese to the role of Communications Director and welcoming Joe Calvello as the new Chief Strategy Officer. Johnson expressed his confidence in Reese, noting his effectiveness as a spokesperson and advisor while praising Calvello's expertise and strategic vision for the city. "I look forward to continuing our work together to ensure that the people of Chicago understand our priorities," Johnson said in a statement released earlier today.
Reese steps up from his initial role as Press Secretary, a position he's held since the mayor's inauguration. He's no stranger to Chicago politics, having served as the Communications Director and Press Secretary during Johnson's 2023 mayoral campaign. Reese, a Chicago native, is credited with creating a digital and community outreach communication model that proved crucial in Johnson's historic win. Before joining the campaign trail, he spent over a decade handling communications for the Chicago Teachers Union, representing some 30,000 members.
On his new appointment, Reese shared his enthusiasm in a statement, "Since day one of this administration, it has been a tremendous honor to serve the people of our city and be a part of the remarkable progress we are making in investing in Chicago's families and communities." He elaborated on his excitement to continue working with Johnson and the city's leadership team to advance their collective message and to strive towards fostering a better, safer Chicago for all residents.
Calvello's coming home to Chicago after a string of successful stints on the national stage, including his role in Senator John Fetterman's victorious 2022 campaign and working for Bernie Sanders's presidential campaign in 2020. He also contributed his communications skills to Planned Parenthood during a critical election cycle and supported Keith Ellison’s 2018 campaign for Minnesota Attorney General. Regarding his move to the mayor's office, Calvello remarked, "It’s an absolute honor and a privilege to come to Chicago and serve the people of this great city," highlighting his alignment with Mayor Johnson's progressive values and commitment to working-class families.
Both Reese and Calvello bring to the table a rich background in strategic communication and political campaigning. With their appointments, Johnson's administration appears poised to tackle the complex narrative of a bustling Chicago, intent on solidifying the mayor's vision for a city that works for everyone, a vision that both staffers share and are fervently ready to execute.
