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Illinois needs leaders who listen

Recent times have proved to be very difficult for the average citizen to navigate. Extreme weather, tragically misguided financial situations, failing banks, schools and religious institutions disturb the daily routine and trouble the slumber of night.

At a time when this country most needs the guidance of true statesmen, we have instead an inordinate number of self-interested, arrogant bullies seeking to capitalize on the raw nerves and fatigue of the American people.

The last few years have seen the emergence of the Tea Party movement. The movement consists of a sad group of very angry people who claim to have the answers to all questions for all people. In reality, they are a small collection of inexperienced citizens who have taken it upon themselves to decide for the rest of us what we want.

America barely had the dismal memory of the Washington "term of inertia" behind it when Rauner, a bully with millions of dollars, began running his offensive ads telling us that he intended to change Illinois into what he wanted it to be.

If there is one thing this state does not need in the very fragile place it finds itself, it is a leader who is not capable of compromise. There is too much to be done in the next years to invite gridlock, arrogance and inertia into the picture. The voters do not need a parent to set rules. They need a leader who will gather the many resources of the state and put them to proper use.

It is important this leader be able to listen, evaluate and encourage the thoughts of the people, and put into action plans that will work for everyone.

This is what America used to stand for and hopefully, with a little wisdom on the part of the voters of Illinois, it will again. Mary T. Smith

Grayslake