Endorsement: Olsen in House Dist. 81
After winning two major appointments this year, David Olsen now needs voters to weigh in on whether he continues his ascent in politics.
Olsen, a former Downers Grove village commissioner who was appointed to the fractured College of DuPage board in February and the Illinois House this summer, hopes to make permanent his role as the representative from the 81st District.
We endorse the young upstart over his Democratic foe, another Downers Grove village commissioner, Greg Hose.
Both are capable public servants who are ready to dive in and try to solve the myriad problems facing the state. But Olsen has shown in all his varied roles, despite a short tenure in any of them, he can learn the ropes quickly and work to build consensus. If elected, he would take over for another Republican, Ron Sandack, a GOP floor leader who resigned abruptly in July. Though only 28, Olsen is more than up to the task and we believe it's important this seat remain Republican as the House continues to be ruled with an iron fist by Democratic House Speaker Michael Madigan.
At the same time, we urge Olsen to be an independent voice for those in the district, which includes all or parts of Darien, Downers Grove, Lisle, Naperville and Westmont.