Andersson cites focus on state finances for 65th state House win

Steve Andersson of Geneva believes it was his focus on the state's finances, and refusal to be "distracted" by social issues, that gave him the victory Tuesday in the campaign for the Republican nomination for the 65th state House District seat.

"My priority was that and that alone," Andersson said. " ... It has to be. Our state financial state is a complete financial disaster."

With all precincts reporting, Andersson received 4,303 votes, Dan Ugaste of Geneva 2,958, and Debbie Miller of Elgin 2,057.

During a forum at a retirement community in Huntley, Ugaste had raised the issue of gay marriage. He said he was "pro-traditional marriage," and that he thought legalizing it last year was a bad decision that should be revisited if voters want.

Andersson said marriage was a religious issue and to him, more importantly, the question was a "distraction" from important business because the topic had already been settled. Debbie Miller said she didn't like government interfering in people's private lives.

Andersson lives in Geneva and is an attorney specializing in municipal law. Miller lives in Elgin and owns a life-counseling business. Ugaste is an attorney representing businesses' interests on workers' compensation issues. During the campaign, Miller said several times there are too many attorneys serving in the state legislature.

Current state Rep. Tim Schmitz is not seeking re-election.

Nobody filed for the Democratic nomination. June 2 is the deadline for the party's managing committee to slate a candidate.

The 65th House District includes parts of Geneva, St. Charles, Campton Hills, Plato Center, South Elgin, Elgin, Hampshire and Huntley.