For Cook County sheriff, Democratic: Dart

Though perhaps frustrated with Cook County government, Democratic voters should put that aside when it comes to the sheriff's office.

Incumbent Tom Dart is the right choice in the Democratic primary. He's a choice voters, worn down by disappointment in many elected leaders, can take a risk believing in - at least as measured by his record so far and his goals.

Dart has reduced violence and increased professionalism at the county jail, he's reaching out to suburban police to stem the spread of gangs, and he's planted the seeds of a plan to link people leaving jail with ministers and community leaders.

Dart also is working to get an expensive federal consent decree lifted from the jail. His opponent, Sylvester Baker, has some good ideas, but it would be a disservice to replace Dart now. The winner will face Republican Frederick Collins and Green Party candidate Marshall P. Lewis in November.