Duckworth for 8th District, Congress

The Daily Herald Editorial Board

Democratic primary voters in the newly drawn 8th Congressional District will have a choice between two outstanding candidates — Hoffman Estates war veteran Tammy Duckworth, former assistant secretary of the U.S. Dept. of Veterans Affairs; and Hoffman Estates attorney Raja Krishnamoorthi, former deputy treasurer of Illinois.

Both have impeccable credentials. In fact, we are so impressed with each that we wish one had decided to run for another office so they wouldn’t be facing each other in this race.

Our recommendation is Duckworth. While both candidates are focused on economic issues, Duckworth seems to connect better at what they mean to people. That, combined with her public service experience and her personal strength and resolve give her a slight edge.

The winner will compete in the fall general election against Rep. Joe Walsh of McHenry, who faces only token write-in opposition in the Republican primary.

The district is expected to be one of the most competitive in the suburbs in the fall election. It is rooted in Northwest suburban Cook and DuPage counties, reaching Elgin on the west, Arlington Heights on the north, Lombard on the south and Des Plaines on the east.