Democrat voting for GOP judge

I am a Democrat and I am supporting Republican Judge Patricia Piper Golden for Judge in the 16th Judicial Circuit Election in November.

I was formerly active as a Democratic precinct committeeperson and vice chair of both the Elgin Democrats and the Kane County Democrats.

Judge Golden's opponent, John Noverini, switched from the Republican Party to the Democratic Party to run for judge. I find his party change to be darn convenient and suspicious. I do not appreciate the Democratic party being used by a political opportunist, nor do 1 trust his "change of heart."

Therefore, having eliminated the political party as the reason to vote for a particular candidate in this race, I have to turn to qualifications. I am an attorney who has practiced in and about Kane County for over 15 years. I have appeared before Judge Golden and seen Judge Golden at many Kane County Bar Association events. I have never seen Mr. Noverini in court or at any such bar association events.

Judge Golden has been a judge for over 10 years. She previously was in private practice and was a state's Attorney, which means she knows both the civil and criminal sides of law practice. Judge Golden also was the founder of the Child Advocacy Center in Kane County, which shows both that she saw a need, came up with a solution, convinced others of same to obtain funding, and organized the project.

Judge Golden has the knowledge, experience and ability and will continue to be a great judge. But don't just take my word for it. Here are the survey results reported by Illinois Judges.net regarding Patricia Piper Golden: Meets Requirements, 91.63; Integrity, 98.41; Impartiality, 93.20; Legal Ability, 93.63; Temperament, 93.23; Court Management, 94.38; Health, 98.37; Sensitivity, 95.20.

I am voting for Judge Patricia Piper Golden and Barack Obama/Joe Biden in November. I urge you to do the same!

Dorothy A. Voigt

Elgin