City Council Confirms Nicole Lee As Chicago's 11th Ward Alderman

CHICAGO —The City Council on Monday confirmed Nicole Lee as 11th Ward alderwoman.

Lee, a United Airlines director, was selected by Mayor Lori Lightfoot to replace former Ald. Patrick Daley Thompson, who was required to resign under state law after being convicted of felony bank fraud.

Lee became the first Asian American on the City Council — and the first woman to serve as 11th Ward alderman — in a 45-0 vote. She must run to retain the seat in 2023, which Lee has not committed to doing, yet.

"I am going to use every moment of this gift that I have in an appointment and the faith the mayor has in me to be the alderman of the 11th Ward to figure out if it is something I can do and do well, and make a decision from there," Lee said.

During the confirmation hearing, Ald. Emma Mitts asked Lee if she planned to be a representative of the Asian American community or all of the 11th Ward. Lee lightheartedly said she's representing "every single person in the 11th Ward, regardless of whether ... they eat rice at night for dinner."

Her quip was one-upped by City Council veteran Ald. Roberto Maldonado, who advised Lee to enjoy her confirmation day.

"This will be the last day that you're going to be happy on this floor," he said.

When asked about her stance on the pending ward map controversy that appears to be headed to a ballot referendum, Lee demurred. She said she plans to talk with members of the City Council and ward residents before making any decisions.

"I'm going to go on a listening tour and do right by the 11th Ward," she said.

Lee emerged as the mayor's pick after candidates who applied for the appointment were interviewed by a four-person selection committee chaired by Ald. Michelle Harris.

Lee, who holds a master's degree in public policy from University of Chicago, is a director at United Airlines responsive for the Chicago-based company's social impact strategy and nonprofit partnerships. She currently serves on UIC Asian American Advisory Council. In the past, Lee has led the Haines Elementary School Council and served as president of the Chicago Chapter of the Organization of Chinese Americans.