Endorsement: Cross for state treasurer, GOP

With current state Treasurer Dan Rutherford seeking the governor's office, the Republican primary to select a candidate to replace him pits state Rep. Tom Cross of Oswego, the former Illinois House minority leader, against DuPage County Auditor Bob Grogan of Downers Grove.

Either candidate would be a good representative of the GOP in the November general election. Grogan touts his work experience as a CPA, a certified fraud examiner and as auditor for DuPage County. He would focus on what he sees as the main job of the treasurer — to manage the state's investments and financial programs.

Cross would take a different approach. He believes the state treasurer could do more to influence the legislative leaders and the governor to pass and sign a balanced budget. Given his previous leadership role in the House, that may be possible. Indeed, he is sure he can bring the issue to the forefront. If he is unsuccessful, Cross says he would take the extreme approach and ask the courts to enforce the constitutional provision for a balanced budget. The state could use more transparency and discussion over its budget and financial condition. The Daily Herald endorses Cross.