For House districts 46, 48, 55, 56, 83 and 96
Springfield is a mess under the dysfunctional Democratic grip of Gov. Rod Blagojevich, Senate President Emil Jones and House Speaker Michael Madigan.
It's time for the voters to send a message. Incumbents, especially Democrats, who play along have to go. Those who fight politics-as-usual deserve another term. Given that, we took a more critical eye than usual in our endorsements for these Illinois House races from DuPage County:
House District 46
Dennis M. Reboletti, Republican incumbent and former prosecutor, is endorsed over Democrat Gary Nowak, a challenger who has done his homework on the issues. Reboletti's expertise in crime and law provides a strong foundation for a lawmaker. This is not the right time to replace a smart Republican with an inexperienced Democrat.
House District 48
Republican Michael Connelly proved himself an effective leader with good ideas while serving on the DuPage County Board and the Lisle village board. Joseph Heneghan, a Democrat from Woodridge, enters the race without experience. Connelly is endorsed.
House District 55
Incumbent Republican Randy Ramey of Carol Stream over the weak candidacies of Democrat Broc Montgomery of Bartlett and Green Party candidate Dan Kairis of South Elgin. We're not that impressed with Ramey's performance, but his opponents unfortunately are not alternatives worth considering.
House District 56
Republican Anita Forte-Scott of Schaumburg over incumbent Paul Froehlich of Schaumburg. Forte-Scott, president of the Schaumburg Township Library Board, is feisty, knowledgeable and in touch. We think it's unlikely she'll allow herself to get pushed around. For good or bad, Froehlich forever will be viewed in Springfield and in the district as a renegade who plays politics first.
House District 83
In three terms, Rep. Linda Chapa LaVia, a Democrat from Aurora, has made a name for herself as an energetic champion for her constituents on topics ranging from education to jobs to senior citizen services. But as an incumbent Democrat, she should also be on notice that she should be using her leadership skills and seniority to influence her party's leadership. She is challenged by Republican Joan Solms a retired lobbyist who espouses a staunch, no-nonsense agenda on lower taxes, reduced government and conservative social issues.
Chapa LaVia's hard work and success in representing local interests remain valuable assets for the district and merit her return - but with the recognition that much will be expected of her in helping get the state back on track in the coming term.
House District 96
Republican Darlene Senger and Democrat Dianne McGuire are filling mailboxes in the 96th House District with hard-hitting campaign pieces attacking character and tapping into emotional issues such as abortion. Both women are smart, proven leaders who would work hard in Springfield. Both are qualified. Each tends to follow their party's platform. For that reason, voters might make their choice based on ideology alone. However, at a time when Democrats have failed in Springfield, it would be a mistake to build their numbers. Senger seems to understand the complexity of the issues and knows how government works because of her experience on the Naperville City Council. While both have strengths, Senger is the better choice.