Independent Arlington Hts. voter likes Mark Walker

Until recently, I have always considered myself a Republican when it came to political party affiliation.

However, like so many others, I have become disillusioned with that party's direction and tone, and I feel neither major political party represents my interests today. As a political moderate, I am looking for individual candidates whom I feel will represent me.

Therefore, I encourage you to vote for Mark Walker as our state representative from the 66th District. I believe he is the right person to deal with the two major issues our state now faces: the huge deficit and corruption in state government.

Mark provides several attributes that have convinced me to vote for him. Based on his successful business career of 30 years both as a senior executive for a major bank and as a business consultant, he has applied his experiences to the business of the state, something that is badly needed in Springfield.

During his first term, he became heavily involved in budgeting and financial management, and he sponsored legislation to bring jobs to the state and to improve our economy.

In addition, Mark tackled the widespread corruption in our state, introducing conflict of interest legislation to reduce the influence of special interests. He has put eliminating waste in government ahead of tax increases, voting consistently against tax increases. And, he voted against pay increases for members of the legislature.

As a retired businessman, he does not need the job for financial gain or for personal glory he serves in the state legislature for the right reason: He feels called to serve the people of this district and the state.

In my conversations with Mark, he strikes me as a person of intelligence and integrity, and someone who shares many of my values.

I hope when you make a decision for whom to vote this November you will consider Mark Walker.

Bob Arnold

Arlington Heights