An Ally in 2007, but No Longer

The afterglow of victory was brief for the self-styled reformers of Chicago’s 32nd Ward.

State Representative John A. Fritchey helped behind the scenes as Scott Waguespack unseated Alderman Ted Matlak in the 2007 election. Now, Mr. Waguespack has accused Mr. Fritchey, the ward’s Democratic committeeman, of trying to recruit challengers when Mr. Waguespack seeks re-election next year.

Alderman Bernard Stone (50th Ward) said last week that Mr. Fritchey had asked his daughter, Lori, who lives in the Near Northwest Side ward, about running against Mr. Waguespack in 2011. Mr. Stone said his daughter rejected the overture.

In an e-mail message, Mr. Fritchey said he did not think Mr. Waguespack had done a good job, but he denied fomenting rebellion. “I’m not a kingmaker,” Mr. Fritchey said.