Kane Dems to Aurora Dems: You're on your own

Aurora Democrats concerned about a flawed process and outcome of their township caucus this week were told by Kane County Democratic Party Chairman Mark Guethle he will not intervene in any way.

Guethle was invited to the caucus, but did not attend. He was well aware of the outcome despite his absence. Several Democrats called him to complain about the inclusion of a provisional ballot that led to Aurora Township Supervisor candidate Annie Craig missing the final ballot for the office by one vote. Attendees also expressed concerns about the integrity of all the ballots and a statement by Aurora Township Democratic Chairman Alex Arroyo that his tiebreaking vote would go to Chritina Campos because she is Hispanic.

Guethle said he provided Arroyo with a set of rules for the caucus the day before the proceedings. They were no different from caucus rules in the past. Guethle said there are many Democrats in Aurora, making it an important part of the Kane County Democratic Party's goals. However, it's also up to them to heal any wounds on their own, he said.

"The other candidates who didn't win, it's up to them what they do," Guethle said. "I guess everyone is just looking to make sure they get a fair shake. I hear different things about what happened. I wasn't there. So, it's up to them to sort out what happens."

At least one election judge at the caucus contacted the Illinois State Board of Elections with concerns about improper conduct at the caucus. And at least one candidate is seeking legal counsel about ways to force a do-over of the caucus. The deadline for Democrats to file a slate of candidates for the township elections is Jan. 26. However, Arroyo can file the list of candidates who won the disputed caucus races as soon as Monday morning.

Guethle said he's not concerned.

"It'll get sorted out," Guethle said. "For today, there's a lineup. If that changes, who knows?"