 In 2008 Allen was found to be one of seven Chicago aldermen who between them got ten of their children good-paying summer jobs with the Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Greater Chicago.In 2008, Allen unsuccessfully sought the Democratic nomination in the election for Cook County State's Attorney.In 2010 Allen cosponsored an ordinance with 30th Ward Alderman Ariel Reboyras that designated a stretch of Central Avenue in the vicinity of its intersection with Belmont Avenue as "Honorary Lech Kaczynski Way" to honor the deceased Polish President.