A duty to debate

She is petite, not over 5 feet 3 inches, but a graduate of West Point, a former Army officer, a mother of five. He is giant in stature - towering well over 6 fee - worth millions of dollars. She has little money, but years of experience as a village board member and legislator in Springfield.

Sadly, Gov. Bruce Rauner seems to be running away from a critical face-to-face debate with his lone but determined challenger, Rep. Jeanne Ives. I learned that Rep. Ives may be debating an "empty chair" on March 13, on Chicago Tonight, WTTW Channel 11 - the premier educational channel for northern Illinois. This is one week before the primary election. In contrast, the next night, March 14, the Democrat candidates for governor will be having a spirited debate. The most powerful office in Illinois is that of governor.

The once-great Land of Lincoln is in dire circumstances, a failing state, compared to our neighbors.

As a former civics teacher, I believe Mr. Rauner's absence at WTTW's Great Debate would show a lack of respect for Illinois voters, and for our electoral process. Most definitely - a lack of courage.

If Mr. Rauner can't defend his record, is unwilling to debate critical issues publicly before a talented opponent, he should drop out of the race.

Eleanor Hesse

Buffalo Grove