Ted Mason: 2026 candidate for Cook County Board District 15

Bio

Office sought: Cook County Board District 15

Party: Democrat

City: Elk Grove Village

Age: 39

Previous offices held: Elk Grove Township Democratic Committeeperson

Q&A

Why are you running for this office? Is there a particular issue that motivates you?

As a father of four, I understand the financial pressures families face as the cost of living continues to rise. We must take the appropriate steps to address affordability, protect our environment, and preserve the essential programs our communities depend on. I am running for Cook County Commissioner because I believe we need leaders who understand how the government works and will collaborate with colleagues across the Board to advance policies and deliver results. Too often, elected officials only focus on their individual role, which does not always help our residents. With my background working at the federal, state, and county levels, I understand how all must interact and work collaboratively to benefit our constituents.

If you are an incumbent, describe your main contributions. Tell us of any important initiatives you’ve led. If you are a challenger, what would you bring to the board and what would your priority be?

I am running for Cook County Commissioner because I want to protect Cook County’s healthcare infrastructure. With major cuts coming from the federal level that directly impact our healthcare, I believe we need leaders who will fight to preserve these programs for our most vulnerable. Additionally, I want to ensure that our Forest Preserve system continues to be the best in the nation. The Next Century Conservation plan calls for acquiring more land and removing invasive species, and I will make sure those issues are focused on. Cook County has the CHARM (Center for Hard to Recycle Materials) facility in the south suburbs, and I would like to work on bringing one to the north suburbs for our residents.

What initiatives would you support to increase revenue and/or save money?

This year’s budget gap is being solved by using reserves and eliminating unfilled vacancies across all departments. I would prioritize a comprehensive evaluation of external contracts and government expenditures before they are approved. Additionally, I would pursue alternative, non-regressive sources, including federal and state grants, to help sustain essential programs without increasing costs for taxpayers. I believe that we need to continue to pass balanced, responsible budgets that protect funding for public services, such as healthcare programs, while avoiding increased taxes for residents.

Is there a specific service or amenity that is lacking in the county? If so, how do you propose to provide and fund it?

One item I would like to work on is streamlining the Forest Preserves’ permit application process. I have heard from numerous residents who have encountered challenges navigating the current system, and finding the application process so complex that they ultimately decide not to obtain a permit. I believe we should make this process more accessible and efficient so that more residents can utilize our Forest Preserves. We want to bring people in to utilize this tremendous resource, and we should be working to eliminate unnecessary barriers that discourage residents from enjoying them. Having more people able to access the permits could also potentially generate additional revenue to the county.

Does there need to be more bipartisanship and cooperation on the county board? If yes, what would you do to help make that happen?

Most items on the board are passed in a bipartisan manner, usually with unanimous support. I firmly agree that working across party lines is essential to serving the best interests of all Cook County residents. Regardless of the Board's political composition, I intend to build constructive relationships with my colleagues and work collaboratively with all members to advance policies that benefit Cook County residents. For every initiative I introduce, I will work to build consensus, encourage meaningful dialogue, and ensure that a broad range of viewpoints is considered. Additionally, I believe the board needs to do better at working with our separately elected officials. While they need the board to approve their budgets each year, too often the work happens in a silo. I will work proactively with each separately elected office to learn about their priorities, as well as sharing their resources throughout the district to benefit our mutual constituents.

What is your stance on county board members' pay? Is it too high, too low, or just right? Would you propose any changes?

With today’s economic challenges and rising cost of living, it is more important than ever to prioritize higher wages for working families and essential workers whose contributions are vital to the well-being of our communities. Families are struggling to make ends meet and it would be irresponsible to increase pay to county board members, especially while the budget is facing uncertainty moving forward. I am committed to serving as a full-time commissioner, and the salary associated with this position will allow me to dedicate my time and attention to addressing the needs of 15th District residents.

What is the most important issue facing the county in your district and how should it be addressed?

The 15th District encompasses the far northwest suburbs of Cook County, where access to County services and resources requires greater attention and investment. For many residents, traveling downtown to access County services can be a significant burden, particularly those with limited transportation options. I believe the County government needs to do a better job of meeting the needs of residents within their own communities. As Commissioner, I will prioritize bringing resources directly into our district through outreach events, strengthening partnerships with local organizations, and improving constituent services that help residents better understand and navigate available programs. Additionally, transportation gaps throughout the district make it difficult for residents who rely on public transportation to access healthcare facilities or workplaces. This is especially true for seniors, individuals with disabilities, and residents without reliable transportation. I will collaboratively work with regional transportation agencies and local municipalities to improve transportation accessibility.