Endorsement: Crespo in House 44

One of the most difficult choices in this November's suburban legislative races is the one between state Rep. Fred Crespo of Hoffman Estates and Hanover Township Clerk Katy Dolan Baumer of Streamwood.

Both are able candidates - Crespo the Democrat, and Baumer, the Republican - and it hasn't been easy to decide who to endorse in Illinois House District 44, which includes parts of Bartlett, Hanover Park, Hoffman Estates, Schaumburg and Streamwood.

We have been supportive of Crespo for years, but in a year like this when his opposition is a strong Republican with a lengthy resume of civic involvement, it would be easier to be supportive if he demonstrated greater independence from House Speaker Michael Madigan.

In particular, it is disappointing that Crespo was a reliable yes vote on a bloated budget proposal that Madigan mandated.

That said, Crespo's strong work ethic continues to impress. He doesn't just show up for the votes; he does his homework. He doesn't just turn up at local functions; he's built strong relationships with community leaders of all political stripes, and he's responsive to his constituents.

He's bipartisan in temperament and works across the aisle. Recently, when Tom Rooney was sworn in as the area's newest Republican state senator, Crespo, a Democrat, was among those attending the ceremony.

It's a tough call this year, but we endorse Crespo. In doing so, we advise him to show the independence to make it an easier call next time.