Republican challenger enters state House race

A Republican candidate on Monday entered the 57th House District race in a challenge to Democratic incumbent state Rep. Elaine Nekritz for the seat she first won in 2002.

James P. Tatooles, 70, of Northbrook said he wants to strengthen his party's presence in Springfield.

"I want to help the Republicans get a stronger voice in Springfield," he said.

He says his main issues are challenging the Cook County sales tax, which he says drives shoppers to neighboring counties, and making sure the state's motor fuel tax goes toward fixing potholes.

Tatooles, whose brother is the Inverness mayor, has run unsuccessfully for Cook County circuit court judge. He practices law in Wheeling.

He says residents in the district don't know much about Nekritz, also of Northbrook, a criticism he blames on her lack of accessibility in the community.

But Nekritz, 50, said she hosts at least five town hall meetings a year with her colleague state Sen. Susan Garrett.

"I feel it is part of my job to stay in touch with folks as best as I can," said Nekritz, a former attorney.

Nekritz said she's running for a fourth term to continue working on those issues she believes are important to district residents.

She wants to focus on flood control issues and getting Des Plaines its first grade separation between trains and cars. Nekritz also said she is dedicated to environmental issues.

The 57th House District includes parts of Des Plaines, Mount Prospect, Prospect Heights and Northbrook.