Focus on solving problems, not talking points about Madigan

With six weeks to the election, campaign mailers are flooding our mailboxes. I am disappointed by mailers sent by Sen. Connelly, as they use the tired Republican fear tactics of Madigan corruption and higher taxes instead of focusing on how to improve our state. Sen. Connelly is using the Illinois Republicans' template and misrepresenting the facts.

It is nonsense that his challenger, Laura Ellman, is in cahoots with Madigan and will raise my taxes. Laura doesn't even know Madigan and supports reforms to restrict his power. She is a first-time candidate and wants to reduce the tax burden for everyday Illinoisans. Ellman does not support any of the tax increases Sen. Connelly attempts to tie her to. I have known her family since the 1980s, when my niece bought all her music and instruments at Ellman's Music. I appreciate her authenticity and her problem solving focus.

Sen. Connelly has been in Springfield since 2009. He has been part of the problem, not the solution. Connelly voted to prolong the budget impasse and deny school funding, and he and Rauner have increased our debt with their irresponsible blame games. Illinois Republicans need to own up to their role in Springfield's mess and stop lying about their opponents with absurd claims.

Connie Devendorf

Naperville