Chicago, IL -  As Illinois mourns the passing of long-time public servant, Cook County Clerk and 7th Congressional District Democratic State Central Committeewoman Karen Yarbrough, Democratic Party of Illinois Chair Lisa Hernandez shared the following:

“As a public servant of decades, Clerk Yarbrough has inspired so many–and not just because of her commitment to service–but through her love for it. I served alongside her in the House and she showed up every day because she believed in the power of government to improve the lives of those she served. Her humility and her willingness to do the hard work, even when it went unnoticed, set an example for all of us.

“As the first woman and Black Cook County Clerk, the Clerk has blazed a trail forward and we are all better for it. Her work as a longstanding leader in the Democratic Party of Illinois and her guidance and wisdom on our State Central Committee has helped move the Party forward. My husband, Charlie, and I send our deepest condolences to her family and loved ones,” said DPI Chair Lisa Hernandez.