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Roberto Maldonado was appointed Alderman of the 26th Ward in July 2009, after serving as Commissioner of the 8th district for 15 years.

Roberto has always believed that government exists to help poor, working class and middle class families who face discrimination and lack a voice in government and politics. His legislative agenda reflected this belief.

In 1994, Roberto became the fourth Latino elected to the Cook County Board of Commissioners since its inception in 1831. During his term he was appointed to the Board of Directors of the National Association of County Officials (“NACO”). Roberto also served as past-President of the NACO affiliate, the National Association of County Aging Programs, advocating for federal and county senior health issues.

Building a Business; Joining the Historic Washington Movement
At 27, Roberto Maldonado arrived in Chicago to pursue his doctorate at Loyola University, after graduating from the prestigious University of Puerto Rico with a master’s degree in clinical psychology. While pursuing his studies, he also worked full-time as a psychologist in the Chicago Public Schools.

Before pursuing elected office, Roberto opened People’s Choice Mortgage Corporation, the first Hispanic owned mortgage-banking firm in the Midwest, giving people from all walks of life the opportunity of home ownership. He currently serves as the firm’s President.

Roberto’s political journey began in the early 1980’s during an historical turning point in politics—the election of Chicago’s first African-American Mayor, Harold Washington. His service in Washington’s administration and, later, his position as campaign manager for, then-Alderman, and future Congressman, Luis Gutierrez fueled Roberto’s passion for politics.

Alderman Maldonado now sits on these committees: Rules & Ethics, Economic Development, Capital & Technology Development, Education & Child Development, Energy, Environmental Protection & Public Utilities and Human Relations.