For guns and against guns

The Machine sometimes allowed limited dissension on resolutions (not ordinances) if it was beneficial to the Alderman and to the Administration. Resolutions were merely advisory or congratulatory. They had no legal force.

When it wanted the Council to pass a non-binding resolution favoring gun control, most Aldermen knew they had to vote for it, but they were allowed to speak against it, if they chose, to appease voters who would likely be angered by their votes.

The visitor’s gallery was full the day the resolution was introduced, and some Council members stated the importance of gun ownership, hoping their comments would be well-received by those in attendance.

35th Ward Alderman Casimir Laskowski turned his back to the Chair and spoke directly to the audience, explaining how gun ownership was a basic right and that everybody should be able to possess a weapon. He then voted for the gun control resolution.