Chicago Political Trailblazer Emil Jones Jr. Celebrates 90th Birthday (Chicago, IL) – Political leaders across Illinois and the nation are celebrating the 90th birthday of Emil Jones Jr., the longtime Illinois Senate President whose influence helped shape a generation of leaders — including former President Barack Obama, who once called him his “political godfather.”
Born on Oct. 18, 1935, on Chicago’s South Side, Jones rose from modest beginnings to become one of the state’s most formidable political figures. His career in public service spanned more than five decades, beginning as a city sanitation worker before he was elected to the Illinois House in 1972, and later to the Illinois Senate, where he served as president from 2003 until his retirement in 2009.
During his tenure, Jones was known for championing education funding reform, expanding economic opportunities for working families, and advocating for historically underserved Black communities. His leadership helped secure billions of dollars for school districts across Illinois and positioned him as a powerful voice in Springfield.
Jones also played a pivotal role in launching the political rise of Barack Obama. When Obama was a little-known state senator, Jones tapped him to carry major legislative priorities, helping elevate his profile before his successful run for the U.S. Senate and ultimately the White House.
“Emil Jones didn’t just open doors — he built them,” said U.S. Rep. Jonathan Jackson in a birthday tribute. “His leadership reminds us what it means to serve with integrity, courage, and a heart for the people.”
Jones’ 90th birthday marks a rare milestone in Illinois politics, where his legacy continues to be reflected in the leaders he mentored and the policies he helped shape. His influence also extends through his family — his son, Emil Jones III, currently serves in the Illinois Senate.
As tributes pour in from civic leaders, former colleagues, and community members, many describe Jones as a trailblazer whose commitment to public service transformed lives and reshaped the political landscape of Chicago and the state.
Jones once said his guiding philosophy was simple: “Never forget the people you came from.” At 90, his legacy continues to reflect that belief — rooted in service, driven by progress, and carried forward by those he inspired
Chicago Political Trailblazer Emil Jones Jr. Celebrates 90th Birthday
