Mayor Urges CPS CEO Martinez to Resign

Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson has asked Chicago Public Schools CEO Pedro Martinez to resign, but Martinez has refused, according to multiple sources. Johnson's request follows Martinez's opposition to taking on costly loans to fill the district’s budget gap and disagreements over pension payments. The Chicago Board of Education, which has the authority to fire Martinez, has been divided on the issue, with some members reportedly losing confidence in him. Martinez, appointed by former Mayor Lori Lightfoot, has faced increasing pressure from the Chicago Teachers Union and public criticism for his fiscal policies. Johnson, a former union organizer, is closely allied with the teachers union, which has strongly supported his mayoral campaign. The Board of Education is expected to discuss the matter in an upcoming meeting.