Endorsement: Laliberte Barnes for Democrats in Illinois House District 51

This endorsement is a consensus opinion of the Daily Herald Editorial Board.

Democratic voters in the Illinois House's 51st District will have a difficult but enviable choice in the June 28 primary as they weigh two passionate, intelligent candidates looking to challenge incumbent Chris Bos in the fall.

Chelsea Laliberte Barnes and Nabeela Syed impress on so many levels.

Barnes, a 37-year-old social worker and business owner now living in Palatine, has long been involved in substance abuse education and prevention issues through Live4Lali, a nonprofit inspired by the overdose death of her brother. She has worked with Democrats and Republicans alike to create the Lake County Opioid Initiative and craft legislation on both the state and federal level.

Syed, 23, grew up in the suburbs volunteering at food pantries and senior living centers. The Inverness resident works for a voting rights nonprofit organization, worked with Emily's List to elect candidates who support abortion rights and has managed campaigns for local school board candidates.

Regardless of the primary outcome, the Democratic nominee in the 51st will be well-prepared - and well-versed on the issues.

That said, Barnes' experience gives her an edge going into a general election against a Republican incumbent. She understands that getting things done requires working with those who wholeheartedly share your beliefs and, at times, those who do not. She is endorsed.