Morrison lands Palatine GOP backing over Bassi

A challenger to state Rep. Suzie Bassi landed the official endorsement of the Palatine Township Republican organization Saturday, continuing a historic feud between the incumbent and a local party boss.

Tom Morrison, a Palatine businessman, was backed by the organization over Bassi, who has held the 54th District seat since 1999.

Bassi did make a presentation to the organization Saturday in an attempt to sway what is likely the largest official Republican organization in her district.

"It was not the least bit unexpected," Bassi said of the group's snub. "But I'm glad I showed up to remind them of what I have done."

Bassi pointed out she has voted to cut the Cook County sales tax, opposed Gov. Pat Quinn's tax hike and worked to impeach Gov. Rod Blagojevich.

The organization under Chairman Gary Skoien has never supported Bassi in a primary challenge before.

Skoien openly backed a primary opponent against Bassi in 2004. Earlier this year Bassi was one of several local Republicans critical of Skoien over a domestic dispute he had with his wife at his Inverness home.

While Morrison is a precinct captain in Skoien's organization, the chairman said he is not organizing an overthrow of Bassi.

"There is an anti-incumbent feeling everywhere, including within the Republican fold," Skoien said.

Morrison said he was "heartened" by the endorsement from his fellow Palatine precinct captains.

"We need new Republican leadership to take the fight to Springfield," he said in a news release.

The 54th District includes parts of Palatine, Hoffman Estates, South Barrington, Rolling Meadows and Inverness.