Chicago Mayor’s Slogan on Public Signs Sparks Ethics Concerns, Prompts Inquiry

CHICAGO – A slogan closely associated with Mayor Brandon Johnson’s administration, “BUILD BETTER TOGETHER,” has appeared on a taxpayer-funded construction sign and in a residential neighborhood, raising questions about the potential misuse of public resources for campaign purposes.

SubXNews has documented these instances and has reached out to multiple oversight agencies and the Mayor’s office for clarity on whether these signs comply with the City of Chicago’s ethics laws.

On May 8, 2025, at approximately 12:25 AM, SubXNews recorded a construction sign at the State and Wacker bridge reconstruction site displaying the message “BUILD CHICAGO BETTER TOGETHER.”

The sign, part of a city infrastructure project, prominently features a slogan that aligns with Mayor Johnson’s campaign rhetoric and public messaging since taking office in 2023.

The video evidence of this sign is available at: https://x.com/SubxNews/status/1920351185459950013

Public Corruption .. Mayor of Chicago is using taxpayer dollars and resources to promote his personal campaign slogan about 1225am May 8th 20/25 State and Wacker reconstruction of the bridge pic.twitter.com/vmtQMf7ayQ

— SubX.News® (@SubxNews) May 8, 2025

Just a day earlier, on May 6, 2025, at 7:18 PM, SubXNews photographed a similar sign in a residential neighborhood at the intersection of 33rd and Oakley in Chicago.

This sign, placed on a sidewalk adjacent to a city street, reads “BUILD BETTER TOGETHER,” includes the Chicago flag, and bears the mayor’s name, suggesting a connection to his administration.

The image of this sign can be viewed at: https://x.com/SubxNews/status/1919909587680956905

Chicago's Mayors using City projects and tax dollars to promote himself and his campaign slogans … there you go can't get more corrupt than that … hiho https://t.co/CELkTsOa8A pic.twitter.com/o1ftuIwa1w

— SubX.News® (@SubxNews) May 7, 2025

The appearance of these signs has sparked concerns among some Chicagoans about whether they violate the City of Chicago’s Governmental Ethics Ordinance (Chapter 2-156), which prohibits city officials from using public resources for campaign purposes.

The ordinance, enforced by the Chicago Board of Ethics, aims to prevent the misuse of taxpayer funds for political promotion, a rule that has been in place for decades and was strengthened by ethics reforms under former Mayor Rahm Emanuel in 2019.

“It’s troubling to see a campaign slogan on a city-funded project,” said a local resident who wished to remain anonymous. “Taxpayers shouldn’t be footing the bill for what looks like self-promotion.”

The State and Wacker sign, tied to a public infrastructure project, raises particular concerns about the use of taxpayer dollars. Meanwhile, the residential sign at 33rd and Oakley, while not directly linked to a city project, has fueled speculation about whether city resources or influence were used to facilitate its placement.

Reaction on X has highlighted historical precedents for such practices.

In a post on May 7, 2025, user pdela175 noted, “While I hate this form of promotion, it’s worth pointing out that [former Mayor Richard M.] Daley did the same thing except with more permanent signs. His name is still everywhere”

Another user, arbtim, adding, “Every mayor in at least the last 60 years has done so.”

Comments suggest a long-standing tradition of Chicago mayors using public spaces to promote their names or slogans, though they do not address the legality of such actions under current ethics rules.

In response to these findings, SubXNews sent formal inquiries on May 8, 2025, to the Chicago Board of Ethics, the Chicago Office of Inspector General, the Illinois Office of the Executive Inspector General, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Public Corruption Division.

The inquiries ask whether the signs violate ethics laws, if similar complaints have been investigated, and what steps are being taken to ensure transparency.

Additionally, SubXNews reached out to Mayor Johnson’s office, seeking clarification on the purpose of the slogan’s use, the funding and placement of the residential sign, and how the administration ensures compliance with ethics rules.

“We want to understand the intent behind these signs and whether they align with the city’s commitment to ethical governance,” said Dr. John Kugler, Editor of SubXNews

The “BUILD BETTER TOGETHER” slogan has been a cornerstone of Mayor Johnson’s public messaging, notably tied to initiatives like the “Build Better Together” economic development strategy announced in 2024, which aims to drive inclusive growth in Chicago.

However, its use in contexts that could be perceived as promotional has drawn scrutiny, especially given the city’s history of ethics violations.

The Chicago Board of Ethics has previously fined officials for lesser infractions, such as failing to complete mandatory ethics training, signaling a commitment to enforcing these rules.

As of publication, none of the agencies or the Mayor’s office have responded to SubXNews’ inquiries.

The story will be updated as responses are received.
SubXNews remains committed to investigating issues of public interest and ensuring transparency in local governance.

Readers with additional information or concerns about this matter are encouraged to contact the SubXNews editorial team at john@subx.news