Mayor Brandon Johnson Urges CTA Board to Appoint Permanent Leader Amid Governance Changes
Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson has urged the Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) board to expedite the appointment of a permanent leader for the agency. This request comes as a new state law is set to limit his control over the executive appointment process. The CTA has been led by an interim president, Nora Leerhsen, since early 2025. Johnson's push for a permanent appointment is driven by the impending implementation of the Northern Illinois Transit Authority (NITA), which will require the new board's advice and consent for such appointments. The law, effective June 1, aims to enhance governance by creating a more powerful body than the current Regional Transportation Authority. Johnson's letter to CTA board Chair Lester Barclay emphasized the need for dedicated leadership to navigate this transition and address the needs of transit workers and riders. 
