Letter: What voters want from primary candidates

After reading in the Herald the lineup of state, congressional and other office candidates, as we approach the primary in June, I ask, to all candidates, please read on.

I wish not to hear of any basing, bad mouthing, or slurring of someone, or their party. Contrary to what your campaign managers might suggest or your own thoughts on the matter, it's childlike and boorish.

I also do not care what color, black, white or plaid, is your level of skin melatonin. Do not use it for any leverage and that of your nationality. I also do not care from what religion is your background, where you may go to service or most importantly, how you feel that devotion is relevant to any race. Please keep it out of your speeches.

However, tell me a story or two as to how you have negotiated, intervened or moved agenda items forward from positions that were challenging or stuck in process. Tell me of your compassion for the less fortunate and exactly what you have done to help our fellow Illinoisans down on their luck. Tell me of your vision in your role if you get elected and elaborate on what is mutually beneficial for all, not just your devotees and supporters.

If you wish to improve Illinois and achieve your goal of becoming an elected official, how will you work in tandem with your rivals? No flim-flam truth here. And lastly, the best of luck in your endeavors and it's up to you to make this primary different by design.

Mark Stastny

Rolling Meadows