On his way out the door, Emanuel shows seldom seen passion

If even a fraction of Mayor Rahm Emanuel’s speeches had been as passionate as his final budget address, he might be running for a third term instead of finishing his second as a lame duck.

Although Wednesday’s speech was filled with legacy-building and self-congratulation, it also was filled with passion.

For a tough-as-nails political tactician better known for his steely resolve and foul language than for wearing his heart on his sleeve, it was a virtual gusher.

It started when the mayor recognized his wife, Amy Rule, in the first row of the gallery.

“Every day while raising three incredible children of our own, Amy has worked to ensure that young women in Chicago also have the love, support and guidance that will help them on a path to a better and brighter future,” the mayor said, his voice choking with emotion.

“Now, I will be the first to say — and Amy is a close second — that I have not always been a perfect mayor. But Amy has approached the role of first lady with a grace, a dignity and a consummate compassion. And I want to thank her for her selfless service on behalf of the children of Chicago.”

Rule got a standing ovation — as did Chicago Public Schools CEO Janice Jackson and Police Supt. Eddie Johnson after Emanuel recognized them.

In closing, Emanuel urged his successor — whoever it is — not to make “phony promises instead of tough choices,” and said he “will forever be profoundly grateful for the privilege of a lifetime to serve the citizens of Chicago.”

With that, the outgoing mayor got a standing ovation of his own.

After Emanuel left, aldermen couldn’t help but notice the show of passion that Chicagoans have seldom seen.

“A lot of things happen when you have the pressure lifted,” said Ald. Anthony Beale (9th). “You could see he was a lot more comfortable, a lot more relaxed and a lot more personable because you don’t have the weight of the city and the world on you.”

Ald. Howard Brookins (21st) agreed that, without the burden of another election, “You can let your hair down and be free and just let it out” instead of trying to “play the odds as to what somebody would say to you or how they feel. Because, who gives a damn?”