Cook County Republican Party Chairman Morrison Steps Down

COOK COUNTY — Cook County Republican Party Chairman Sean Morrison will step down from the role, calling on "those watching from the sidelines" to "help lead this party with integrity and conviction," according to an email sent to supporters April 4.

His resignation is effective Monday, April 14, Morrison said.

"This is not a new decision," Morrison wrote. "Over the past year, I’ve had numerous conversations with my family, close advisors, and trusted colleagues about moving toward a transition in leadership. After careful thought and planning, I made the commitment to stay the course through the 2024 General Election and complete the April 2025 Consolidated Elections to ensure our party remained focused and steady during this crucial cycle.

"It has been one of the great honors of my life to serve in this capacity. I’ve had the privilege to work with so many hardworking, community-centric individuals who embody the spirit and strength of our party. I am grateful for the support, dedication, and perseverance shown by so many along the way."

Morrison, who is also Cook County Commissioner serving the 17th District, made the announcement just three days after the consolidated election, and one day after a letter criticizing the nature of the mayoral race in Orland Park. Mayor Keith Pekau was ousted by challenger Jim Dodge.

In the open letter, Morrison praised Pekau and his trustees.

"Under his leadership, the Village of Orland Park has made significant advancements in public safety, fiscal discipline, and economic development — all while restoring transparency and accountability in local government," Morrison wrote. "These are real and lasting achievements."

He went on to say the mayoral race was, "marred by a level of nastiness and vitriol that has no place in public service.

"Anonymous attacks, baseless character assassination, and coordinated personal harassment attempted to distract voters from the real issues at stake," the letter reads. "Yet despite this, Mayor Pekau carried himself with integrity and professionalism — never allowing political gamesmanship to pull him away from the work of governing. That’s the kind of leadership our communities deserve.

"As Orland Park turns the page and welcomes Mayor-elect Jim Dodge into office, I want to be clear: I remain committed to working collaboratively with the new administration to advance the interests of all Orland Park residents. I sincerely hope the Dodge administration will continue moving the village forward and avoid the wasteful, bloated, and patronage-driven policies of past eras. This is an important moment for Orland Park — and for all of us who care about good, clean government. Let’s ensure the next chapter reflects the highest standards of public service."

In the April 4 letter announcing his retirement from the chairman role, Morrison said, "it's time for new energy."

"The future of our party depends on fresh, motivated, and hardworking members to step up and carry the baton forward. I am confident that the next generation of Republican leaders is ready to answer the call."

Morrison called for an election to choose the next Chairman of the Cook County Republican Party; the election will take place on Tuesday, April 22.

Morrison will continue to serve as the Palos Township Republican Committeeman, and will complete his term on the Illinois Republican State Central Committee, he said.

Morrison was appointed Cook County Commissioner of the 17th District in 2015. He was then elected to a full 4-year term in 2018 and re-elected in 2022.