Emanuel accepted gifts of sports tickets, travel perks last year – Chicago Tribune

For the sixth straight year, Mayor Rahm Emanuel has reported receiving free transportation, sports tickets and houseguest stays from wealthy friends and political supporters.

Emanuel made the disclosure on his annual economic interest statement that was due Monday and requires all Cook County politicians to report gifts valued at more than $500. The mayor accepted gifts from three people last year — two regulars and a newcomer to his annual filing.

Once again, Emanuel accepted transportation and sports tickets from close friend, confidant and top campaign donor Michael Sacks, whom the mayor appointed to run World Business Chicago shortly after taking office in 2011. Sacks has appeared on the list every year since Emanuel took office, but 2016 is the first year the mayor reported staying as a houseguest of Sacks.

Sacks, his family and employees at investment firm GCM Grosvenor have contributed more than $3.6 million to funds that helped Emanuel win election, state campaign finance records show.