Endorsement: The Daily Herald recommends Ugaste over Johnson for Illinois House District 65

Voters in Illinois House District 65 have a choice between fiscal conservative Dan Ugaste of Geneva and teachers union chief Richard Johnson of Elgin, and while the special interests no doubt are in Johnson's corner, we think Ugaste would make the better state representative.

The district takes in parts of Elgin, Geneva, Hampshire, Pingree Grove, St. Charles and South Elgin.

This is Ugaste's second run for the legislature, having lost a Republican primary contest four years ago. He's a thoughtful, straightforward attorney who's been involved in the community. He's built his campaign around his expertise in business and financial matters.

Johnson, the Democrat, was a longtime high school teacher before becoming president of the Elgin Teachers Association. We find him to be personable but less knowledgeable about the important issues facing the state.

We endorse Ugaste.