Lake Co. parties set to choose leaders
Lake County's Democratic and Republican precinct representatives are ready to choose their local leaders, but the elections come at unsettled times for both parties.
State Sen. Terry Link, long the Democrats' county chairman, and Lake Villa Township Supervisor Daniel Venturi, the GOP's local chief since 2006, both stand to be re-elected to their posts. The biennial elections are set for Wednesday night in separate meetings in Waukegan.
However, Venturi has been under fire from some conservative Republicans virtually since his election. Although they've been relatively quiet lately, members of the Republican Assembly of Lake County have sparred with Venturi since his ascension to the top of the local party.
As for the Democrats, Link has been disparaged in recent months by members of his party, too; earlier this year, he briefly faced a rare primary challenge for his Senate seat from former North Chicago mayor Jerry Johnson until Johnson was knocked off the ballot.
Link's under additional scrutiny because of a Lake County state's attorney investigation into complaints about his candidate petition. That investigation has not led to any charges.
Despite the controversies, both men are confident they'll retain their party posts.
"Last time, it was a contentious race. But even if there is a challenge, I think I would be successful," said Venturi, who defeated Cuba Township Highway Commissioner Tom Gooch to win his post in 2006. "The support is there; the votes are there."
Link is seeking a ninth term as chairman and doesn't expect opposition Wednesday despite the recent criticism.
The county's Republican convention will begin at 7 p.m. at the Midlane Golf Resort, 4555 W. Yorkhouse Road. It is open to local precinct committee representatives and Republican officials, not the general public.
The Democratic event is set for 7 p.m. at the Ramada Inn, 200 N. Green Bay Road. It is open to the public, Link said, and admission is free. Only precinct committee representatives can participate in the political proceedings.
Raymond True, chairman of the Republican Assembly, said he hasn't heard of anyone coming forward to challenge Venturi. The lack of opposition didn't surprise him.
"The Republican Party has been so dismal under his leadership," True said, referring to seats that went to Democrats and decreasing GOP precinct representation. "Nobody wants to take over a sinking ship."
Venturi declined to respond.
Link hasn't had an opponent for the chairmanship in years. He's pleased the strides Democrats have made in Lake County -- recent victories include the sheriff's and coroner's posts -- and he's excited about the upcoming presidential election.
As for his critics, Link said Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan is no stranger to detractors, either. Nor was former Chicago mayor Richard J. Daley, he said.
"If you're doing your job, you're going to have critics," said Link, of Waukegan. "If you don't, it means you're sitting back and doing nothing."