Editorial: Wheeler for House District 50, GOP

Four candidates are seeking the Republican nomination to replace outgoing Rep. Kay Hatcher in Illinois House District 50. William Keck boasts local government service as Kane County auditor. Julie Cosimo has a PhD. in higher education and organizational change - a topic particularly in demand in Springfield these days - and administrative experience as director of career development at Benedictine University. As legislative and constituent services director for state Rep. Timothy Schmitz, Beth Goncher has direct experience with the legislature and with one of the most practical functions of any lawmaker. Keith Wheeler. owner of an IT consulting company, has valuable business experience and a noteworthy range of volunteer work in community and business organizations.

All of the candidates express generally similar views on the key issues - notably calling for reduced state spending, repeal of the state income tax as scheduled, and workers' compensation reform. Wheeler particularly demonstrates a diverse record of service and leadership in civic and community projects, including at the Kendall County Food Pantry, the Aurora Chamber of Commerce and an advisory committee in District 308. In addition, he demonstrates a fluent and detailed understanding of the key economic issues facing the state as well as the ability to advance his positions while working, and likely leading, cooperatively in a challenging environment. He is endorsed.