Hoffman emphasizes 'trust' in Senate campaign

Former Chicago inspector general David Hoffman implied his Democratic challengers for Senate can't be trusted as he took hits over his own policy positions Wednesday.

"The fundamental question on (voters') minds is, 'Who can we trust?'" Hoffman told the Daily Herald editorial board Wednesday. "There is a lot of rhetoric. How can we believe it?"

Hoffman is in a five-way race for U.S. Senate against Illinois Treasurer Alexi Giannoulias, Chicago Urban League President Cheryle Jackson and attorney Jacob Meister. All of the contenders are from Chicago.

Hoffman argues his work as a federal prosecutor in Chicago and as a watchdog probing Mayor Richard Daley's administration illustrates he can be trusted in the wake of Rod Blagojevich and other scandals.

But opponents have disputed Hoffman's attempt to solely claim the mantel of reform in the primary. Giannoulias has attacked Hoffman for having large investments in banks that received taxpayer bailouts the candidate also criticizes.

"It is hypocritical for David to rail against Wall Street banks when he is their beneficiary," said campaign spokeswoman Kati Phillips on Wednesday.

Hoffman took aim at Giannoulias' own bank ties before the editorial board.

Giannoulias' family bank has given loans to Tony Rezko, who was convicted of influence peddling in Blagojevich's administration. On Wednesday, Hoffman called Giannoulias' family business "Rezko's banker" and pointed out Rezko might be testifying against Blagojevich before the general election on Nov. 2.

Giannoulias has defended himself against such accusations before, saying he did not have close ties to Rezko.

Meanwhile, Hoffman said Wednesday he was "somewhat surprised" by the ability of the Illinois Reform Commission to land campaign contribution caps following Blagojevich's arrest and ouster.

Hoffman sat on the commission that recommended the limits, along with a host of other sweeping reforms, and then publicly pushed lawmakers for action with other watchdog groups.

Illinois legislative leaders were still largely opposed to strict contribution limits even after Blagojevich's ouster, but a set of caps was recently signed by Gov. Pat Quinn.

Critics say the final package still lacks limits on how much legislative leaders can dole out to candidates in general election battles. Hoffman agreed the final legislation was "flawed" but said Quinn was right to sign it.

"I am somewhat surprised that it got as far as that - that we now have a system of limits as imperfect as it is," Hoffman said. "It is surprising."

U.S. Sen. Roland Burris, who was appointed by Blagojevich after the then-governor had been arrested, is not seeking election. The seat was formerly held by President Barack Obama.

The primary is Feb. 2.