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.
Youth violence in Chicago has increased in recent years. Eight teens were recently shot and one was killed, and youth murders and shootings rose roughly 50% during extended school closures. From 2021 to 2025, 311 school-age youths were killed and 1,462 were wounded. The report also found that 41% of students are chronically absent, only two in five read at grade level, and more than two in five teachers miss at least ten days per year according to the Illinois Policy Institute.
Albers is a resident of Morton Grove who was appointed president of the Niles Township Republican organization in early 2024. He previously ran for Illinois House District 15 and has focused on increasing Republican voter turnout, expanding party membership in the township and communicating Republican positions on local issues according to his campaign website.
