"Death of Cook County Clerk Karen Yarbrough Following Hospitalization for Serious Medical Condition"

Cook County Clerk Karen Yarbrough has passed away at the age of 73 after being hospitalized with a serious medical condition. Yarbrough, the first woman and first African American to hold the office, was remembered as a trailblazer with a three-decade career in local and state politics. Illinois leaders, including Gov. JB Pritzker and Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson, offered condolences, praising Yarbrough's impact and dedication to public service. Her family and colleagues also released statements honoring her legacy.