I am not cynical about this, and give the man credit.
A longtime Chicago alderman has taken the unusual step of outing himself as an alcoholic just six months before he stands for re-election.
Ald. Ricardo Munoz, who expects to face a challenge in the 22nd Ward, spoke with Hoy, the Tribune’s Spanish-language paper, to discuss his battle with alcohol for a story published Monday.
"This last year has been rather difficult for me, in terms of my abuse of alcohol," Munoz said in a follow-up interview Monday with the Tribune. "In May, I came to the conclusion that I needed help. That’s when I checked myself into an outpatient rehab clinic."
For nearly five weeks, Munoz was counseled daily, and says he’s now going once a week. He also joined Alcoholics Anonymous and said he has remained sober except for a one-day relapse.
Munoz said he drank excessively after work, but not in the mornings and afternoons. He sometimes missed evening meetings and went into work at 9 or 10 a.m., instead of 6 or 7 a.m.
"The disease had affected every aspect of my life," Munoz said. "It affected me professionally, socially and at home. That’s why I came to the conclusion that I couldn’t continue it and needed help."
The veteran politician’s admission comes ahead of February’s city election, where Munoz is expected to seek another term representing Little Village on the council.
Congratulations, Alderman.
And best to you.