House candidate is inclusive, independent

We are disappointed in your endorsement of Jim Caffrey's opponent for Illinois state representative from the 47th District.

Your endorsement was based on a very brief sample of experience attributed to Jim's opponent.

His opponent was only recently appointed to fill a vacancy in July. This appointment conflicts with a widely passed 2012 referendum in DuPage County prohibiting a single person from holding two public offices at the same time.

Your endorsement describes Jim's opponent as a conservative Republican. Judging by her past social media posts, one would conclude that her preferences go far beyond conservative to the point of extreme. Her posts have indicated a troubling tendency in favor of exclusion, intolerance, disharmony and extreme partisanship.

Conversely, Jim Caffrey is a newcomer to the Illinois political landscape. Because of that, he carries no political baggage. He offers the promise of political independence as evidenced by the fact that he has not accepted any contributions from Democratic organizations, his independent views on gerrymandering, and his promise to work in a bipartisan manner. His campaign has demonstrated respect, inclusion, energy and enthusiasm all of which would indicate an effective state legislator.

We encourage all voters of District 47 to seriously consider the candidacy of Jim Caffrey.

Theresa & Tony Tortorello

Elmhurst