Chicago FOP President John Catanzara wins re-election

CHICAGO (CBS) -- John Catanzara has been reelected as president of the Chicago Fraternal Order of Police.

Catanzara won his bid reelection with 57 percent of the vote, compared with 43 percent for his challenger, Detective Robert Bartlett, according to results published by the Chicago FOP Lodge 7.

Catanzara was elected in 2020. He faced criticism for his combative relationship with city leaders – especially over COVID protocols. He's also alienated community groups and police allies with his controversial statements and Twitter posts.

In November 2021, Catanzara retired from the Chicago Police Department after one hearing on a disciplinary matter that could have resulted in his being fired. He was accused of violating 11 CPD rules – with offenses alleged including insubordination, incompetency, disobedience, participating in partisan political activities, and making a false report.

But his choice to retire put an end to the department's bid to fire him.

Catanzara also claimed at one time that he would run for mayor this year, but he did not end up doing so.

Bartlett is a 24-year veteran of the department, and has been a field rep for the FOP. He said Catanzara's tactics are hurting the union and costing them in contracts.