Quinn for Illinois

In the Democratic race for governor, we are endorsing the incumbent, Pat Quinn, over his challenger, Illinois Comptroller Dan Hynes.

Quinn, 61, has been a familiar face in the News-Herald office over the years. He helped create the Citizens Utility Board and has served as state treasurer. He has also been an ambassador for voters who feel powerless. He relished his role as a maverick.

He has also worked closely with organizations on the Southwest Side, like the Clearing and Garfield Ridge civic leagues. He also helped the United Business Association of Midway, especially on their Main Street project.

However, he has been somewhat of a disappointment since being propelled into the governor’s chair after Rod Blagojevich was booted out of office. He has been taken to task for the early release of prisoners.

But Hynes, 41, has not made a sufficient case for becoming governor. He keeps harping about the early release of prisoners and debated Quinn on how he will actually lower taxes. We favor Quinn, but we want to see the Quinn who reached out to the disenfranchised and displayed more of an independent streak.