Q&A with Cronin

1. Why are you running for this office, whether for re-election or election the first time? Is there a particular issue that motivates you, and if so, what? What will be your main priority?

I believe I have the education, training, experience and passion for public service. I am motivated by issues involving education. A priority of mine is to advance accountability measures in our public schools.

2. For incumbents and non-incumbents. If you are an incumbent, describe your main contributions. Tell us of important initiatives you've led. If you are not an incumbent, tell us what contributions you would make.

1. the nationally-acclaimed Chicago School Reform Law of 1995-96; 2. the establishment of group homes for children with autism; 3. the reform of eminent domain laws providing more protection for property owners; 4. defeat of the gross receipts tax proposal; 5. Smoke Free Illinois; 6. stricter teen driving laws; 7. the education tax credit law; 8. charter school laws; 9. reporting of clergy abuse laws; 10. school construction grant program; 11. property tax caps; 12. alternative route to teacher certification law

3. Under what circumstances, if any, would you support raising the state income or sales tax? Please explain.

I would not support a tax increase and give this incompetent administration one additional dollar to spend as they see fit.

4. Do you support the expansion of gambling by adding slot machines at racetracks? Do you favor licensing and building new casinos? Please explain.

I am reluctant to support an expansion of gaming. However, the revenue generated from gaming is significant and, therefore, appropriate to support a capital construction program. This revenue from taxes on gaming operations as well as proceeds from competitive bidding by those seeking a gaming license would certainly be less of a burden to the average taxpayer who chooses not to gamble than a tax increase.

5. Would you support giving voters the ability to recall elected officials?

Yes! Illinois citizens have understandably lost faith and trust in state government. Recall would go a long way to restoring that faith and trust by demanding more of our elected officials every day of their term of service in public office.

6. Did you support the suburban tax increases that were used to keep the public transportation trains and buses running without cuts or fare increases?

In order to keep the trains and buses running and relieve traffic congestion on our roads and to maintain safe streets and neighborhoods with much needed support for patrol officers, prosecutors, and parol officers, yes, I supported the legislation calling for additional revenue.

7. If you are elected, will you vote for the current party leader of your legislative chamber? Why or why not?

I will support the Legislative Leader that best supports and enables me to serve the citizens and taxpayers of the 21st Legislative District.

8. What do you think of the idea, widely circulated, of impeaching Gov. Blagojevich?

Since the Illinois Senate has the constitutional responsibility to deliberate and decide questions of impeachment, I should refrain from responding directly to this question. My sentiments about this governor and this administration are not a secret, however.