Alderman to take post in Quinn office

May 12, 2009 The governor says he is counting on Ocasio to be his right-hand man and to play a role in all of the administration's decision making. The alderman is giving up his longtime seat in Chicago's city council to work for Quinn. Ocasio told reporters he's honored to join Quinn's administration.

"Governor Quinn and I share a belief that positive change will come when you put the needs of others first. I'm impressed with governor quinn --excited about the new direction that he is taking the state of Illinois," said Ocasio.

Ocasio has been an alderman since he was appointed to replace Luis Gutierrez in 1993. He'll join the governor's staff next month.

Mayor Richard Daley will appoint his replacement.