Fortner for Illinois House District 95

Maria Owens says she couldn't sit idly by as Illinois deals with its budgetary mess.

So the retired schoolteacher from Winfield decided to challenge incumbent Republican Mike Fortner for the opportunity to represent state House District 95.

Owens, who lists job creation and the economy as her top issues, says she would bring a common-sense approach to Springfield.

However, District 95 already has a representative who is doing that: Fortner. We have said before that the former West Chicago mayor brings a keen understanding of local government, transportation and science to his role as a state lawmaker. Our opinion of him hasn't changed.

Going forward, Fortner says he believes further pension reform is needed to help address the state's budget crisis.

He already has several valid ideas on how the pension system can be improved.

Fortner is endorsed.