Endorsement: U.S. House 8

The primary ballots are fairly congested in the 8th Congressional District, which takes in portions of Lake, Cook and McHenry counties.

In the Democratic primary, we endorse incumbent Melissa L. Bean of Barrington, who faces dogged competition from peace activist Randi J. Scheurer of Lindenhurst.

We appreciate Scheurer's relentless dedication to the same cause that prompted her husband, Bill, to run for the seat two years ago, but we disagree with Scheurer's assessment that Bean is out of touch with her constituents.

Bean works hard to connect with district residents and represents their interests well as a socially moderate, fiscally conservative Democrat concerned about Internet safety and consumer protection.

In the Republican primary, we're impressed in many ways with all three candidates, but our endorsement goes to Long Grove businessman Steve Greenberg.

We believe his somewhat moderate domestic policy views are more in keeping with the sentiments of the district and his strong interpersonal skills make him the candidate most likely to give Bean a spirited contest in the fall.

We see selflessness in the candidacy of Kirk Morris and thoughtful tenacity in the campaign of conservative Kenneth Arnold, but side with Greenberg as the strongest candidate.