Letter: Rights on the ballot

The U.S. Supreme Court, via the Dobbs decision, ruled that the Constitution doesn't give women a right to an abortion, thereby overturning the 50-year precedent of Roe v. Wade. What this means is that all women in the U.S. including your sisters, daughters, granddaughters and nieces don't have this right and that states can decide, either legislatively or by court ruling, which reproductive privileges are allowed for their state's females. Many people thought that Roe was "settled law" and believed it was safe based on the Trump nominees' statements; however, the U.S. Supreme Court's vote of six out of nine against Roe dashed those beliefs.

Recently a friend asked me "Aren't we safe in Illinois?" My response: "Don't bet on it, vote on it." Judges and legislators are vital, especially now that the Illinois Supreme Court has the power to decide. Many voters don't focus on judicial elections. We need to carefully review prior rulings and statements from each judge to determine how they may rule in the future.

Three of seven Illinois Supreme Court seats are on the November ballot: Mary Jane Theis (Democrat) retention, Michael J Burke (Republican) or Mary O'Brien (Democrat) 2nd District and Elizabeth M Rochford (Democrat) or Mark Curran (Republican) 3rd District. Who will support a woman's right to choose? U.S. Congressman Sean Casten (Democrat) for 6th District reelection strongly supports women's rights. Please vote carefully in November.

David Terrill

Elmhurst