State House Dist. 42: Pihos

In the state House 42nd District, voters will choose Republican Sandra Pihos, an eight-year incumbent from Glen Ellyn, or Democrat Kathryn Vlahos from Downers Grove.

Both say solving the budget crisis must start with a thorough look at spending to see what can be cut, consolidated and otherwise made more efficient.

Last-minute budgets created by a few powerful lawmakers must be a thing of the past, both say. Vlahos, who has a record of civic involvement, doesn't see an ultimate solution without a sales or income tax increase.

Pihos, who served on the Glenbard High School District 87 board for 10 years, doesn't think a tax hike will solve what she sees as the real problems too much borrowing and spending.

Pihos appears to be committed to more pension and ethics reform.

While Vlahos has good ideas and motivations, we believe Pihos will be the most effective in actually bringing change to Springfield.