Mark Albers on teen takeovers: ‘Leadership under

Brandon Johnson continues to fall short’

North Cook News - March 31, 2026

Mark Albers, president of the Niles Township Republicans, said recent “teen takeover” incidents in Chicago reflect a failure of leadership by Mayor Brandon Johnson and city Democrats, pointing to broader concerns about rising youth crime and accountability. He made the comments to North Cook News.

The issue has drawn attention as violent outbreaks involving young people have become more frequent in Chicago. Albers said, “What happened in downtown Chicago should alarm every resident, as leadership under Brandon Johnson continues to fall short. Violent outbreaks involving young people are becoming more frequent, putting both teens and the public in danger. Waiting until chaos erupts before imposing curfews is not a strategy—it’s a reaction to failure. Without immediate change, more young lives could be put at risk,” according to North Cook News.

The Daily Mail reported that about 400 teenagers gathered in downtown Chicago’s Loop during a spring break “teen takeover” on March 25, resulting in multiple disturbances. Videos showed fights, assaults and teens jumping on cars, with some reportedly using mace and tasers. At least one teen was knocked unconscious and hospitalized. Police made multiple arrests, including for assaulting an officer, and deployed tactical units as the situation escalated. Officials imposed an emergency 10 p.m. curfew, after which the crowd dispersed according to The Daily Mail.

Continue reading the remainder of this article

Mark Albers is a resident of Morton Grove who was appointed president of the Niles Township GOP organization early in 2024. He has recently run for Illinois House seat #15 and is committed to boosting Republican voter turnout locally while communicating party positions on issues relevant to township voters.