49th Ward Democrats Endorse One of Their Own, Sarah Bury, for Metropolitan Water Reclamation District

CHICAGO, IL — The 49th Ward Democrats have endorsed Sarah Bury for Commissioner of the Metropolitan Water Reclamation District (MWRD), backing not only a highly qualified environmental attorney, but a longtime 49th Ward resident and organizer they know and trust.

“The Democratic Party of the 49th Ward is proud to endorse Sarah Bury for Metropolitan Water Reclamation District Commissioner,” said David Kogan, President of the organization. “Sarah is a supremely qualified attorney and environmentalist, and moreover has a long history of successful organizing in the ward and in the city overall. As just one example of many, Sarah was instrumental in organizing canvassing from Chicago to neighboring states with Operation Swing State during the 2024 presidential election.”

For years, Bury has been an active presence in the 49th Ward — organizing, mobilizing volunteers, and building coalitions to advance Democratic values locally and statewide. Her leadership with Operation Swing State during the 2024 presidential cycle helped coordinate canvassing efforts from Chicago into neighboring battleground states, strengthening Democratic turnout efforts beyond the ward’s borders.

In addition to her community organizing, Bury brings deep professional expertise to the race. An environmental attorney with a master’s degree in environmental politics, she has worked extensively on water quality, environmental protection, and climate resilience. She has served as the Water Issue Specialist for the League of Women Voters of Illinois, a Water Quality Fellow at the Alliance for the Great Lakes, and a volunteer with the Sierra Club’s Water Team.

“As a 49th Ward resident, this endorsement means so much to me,” Bury said. “This is my home. These are my neighbors. The people of this ward have seen my work up close — not just in this campaign, but over many years of organizing and fighting for Democratic values. I’m honored to have their trust.”

The Metropolitan Water Reclamation District plays a critical role in wastewater treatment, stormwater management, and protecting regional water quality for millions of Cook County residents. The 49th Ward Democrats’ endorsement underscores their confidence that Bury will bring a community-centered approach to the role.

Early voting is now open for the March 17th Democratic primary.