Emanuel sits out MLK education forum

Emanuel sits out MLK education forum

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All but one of the major Chicago mayoral candidates participated in a Martin Luther King education forum in honor of the civil rights leader’s birthday.

Gery Chico, Miguel del Valle, Carol Moseley Braun and Patricia Van Pelt Watkins took the stage at the annual King breakfast sponsored by Rainbow Push. They emphasized the need for improving neighborhood public schools.

Rahm Emanuel attended part of the morning but did not stay for the forum. He has not participated in mayoral public debates.

Illinois Gov. Pat Quinn said he was disappointed that Emanuel did not partake.

“I think that was a disservice. I think there was a really robust discussion on education,” he said. The Governor, a Chicago resident, said he will not endorse any candidates.

Tonight the candidates will meet for their first televised debate of the election season on WTTW. This time Emanuel is scheduled to appear.