Challenges Faced by Rahm Emanuel: Obstacles and Turning Points

A closer look at the defining struggles that shaped Rahm Emanuel's life and career.

Rahm Emanuel is an American politician and diplomat. He served as the United States Ambassador to Japan (2022-2025). A Democrat, he previously represented Illinois in the U.S. House of Representatives (2003-2009). Emanuel was White House Chief of Staff (2009-2010) under President Barack Obama before serving as mayor of Chicago from 2011 to 2019. His career reflects significant involvement in both national and local politics.

Sections (4)

Full Timeline Career & Achievements Challenges & Struggles Controversies & Scandals

September 2010: Departure Anticipation

By September 2010, Emanuel's departure as chief of staff was anticipated due to conflicts with other senior members of the president's team and ideological clashes over policy.

2010: Criticism for Campaign Strategy

Emanuel faced criticism for his failure to support some progressive candidates, and his recruitment of right-leaning candidates was said to have contributed to G.O.P. gains when the Democrats lost control of the House in the 2010 mid-term elections.

January 24, 2011: Court of Appeals Decision

On January 24, 2011, a divided Court of Appeals reversed the Circuit Court, holding that residency for purposes of a candidate is different from residency for purposes of being a voter.

August 2014: Low Approval Rating as Mayor

In August 2014, a Chicago Tribune poll reported Emanuel had a 35% approval rating as mayor of Chicago.

2015: Won Chicago Mayoral Election

In 2015, Emanuel failed to obtain an absolute majority in the first round of the Chicago mayoral election but defeated Jesús "Chuy" García in the subsequent run-off election. His approval rating later plunged to "the low 20s" in response to a series of scandals.

February 2016: Record Low Approval Ratings

In February 2016, Chicago Tribune polls reported that Emanuel's approval ratings had dropped to 27% due to his role as the Mayor of Chicago, marking an all-time record low and a "public crisis in confidence."