September Serafin Power Poll: From School Shocker to ShotSpotter Showdown

Welcome back, Windy City power players! As the leaves start to turn and the air gets a bit crisper, our September Serafin Power Poll brings you the hottest takes on the issues facing Chicago. Let’s dive into what’s got our city’s movers and shakers talking about this month.

School Daze: Martinez’s Marching Orders

It seems Mayor Brandon Johnson’s campaign to oust Chicago Public Schools CEO Pedro Martinez is very unpopular with Serafin Power Pollers:

• A whopping 69% say the mayor and the Chicago Teachers Union are off base, saying they believe Martinez is doing a solid job and shouldn’t be shown the door.
• Only 4% are backing the mayor’s play, agreeing Martinez should pack up his desk if the board votes him out.
• 27% are sitting on the fence, unsure whether Martinez should stay or go.

ShotSpotter Spat: To Hear or Not to Hear?

Several members of the City Council are threatening to override Mayor Johnson’s decision to let the ShotSpotter contract expire.  We asked Serafin Power Pollers what they thought about the controversial gunshot detection technology:

• 76% say it’s a lifesaver and the mayor should ink a new deal.
• Only 5% agree with the mayor’s decision to let the contract lapse.
• 19% are on the fence.

Social Media Warning: Surgeon General’s Orders?

Should social media come with a warning label? A group of attorneys general, including our own Kwame Raoul, seem to think so:

• 71% of our pollsters are giving this idea a thumbs up.
• 29% aren’t buying it, saying a warning label on social media is not a good idea.

CTA: Chicago’s Transit Anxiety?

Is the CTA living up to our world-class city status? Our pollsters had some strong opinions:

• A mere 19% think the CTA is on the right track.
• A staggering 74% say it’s off the rails.
• 7% are undecided, possibly still waiting for that bus that was supposed to arrive 20 minutes ago.

Presidential Debates: Round Two (or Three or Four)?

With election season heating up, some are calling for another presidential debate. Here’s what our pollsters think:

• 58% are ready to grab the popcorn for another showdown.
• 34% say “thanks, but no thanks” to a second debate between Kamala Harris and Donald Trump
• 7% are undecided.

Wrapping Up

Well, there you have it, Chicago! From a showdown on schools to transit tribulations, our September poll has given us plenty to chew on.

Remember, the Serafin Power Poll isn’t a scientific study, but it does give us a peek into the minds of Chicago’s most influential. Until next time, peace!