2010 Democratic Candidates

Federal Candidates

Alexi Giannoulias, United States Senator

Alexi is a progressive Democrat who believes we need to move this country forward, rebuild the economy and create the next generation of good-paying jobs instead of returning to the failed policies of the past.

As a candidate for Senate, Alexi has introduced his comprehensive FutureWorks plan, a detailed, common-sense economic plan to jump start our economy and create the next generation of good-paying jobs right here in Illinois. Alexi’s plan includes tax relief for working families and small businesses, cracking down on deceptive and dangerous corporate practices that hurt our economy, and reducing our deficit.

  • campaign contact: (312) 738-6190
    PO Box 494 Chicago, IL 60690
  • campaign website: AlexiForIllinois.com

David Gill, Representative in Congress, 15th District

As a physician, I work with people in need every day. When patients come into the E.R., I do not ask about their politics before I treat them. I identify and examine each problem, and offer solutions based on my experience and the best medical practices available.

If I am elected, I will do the same in Congress. As an independent-minded Democrat, with no assistance from any national political party, I intend to represent your interests in Washington, D.C. I will listen attentively to your concerns and work tirelessly to improve the quality of life for the people of our district. I’ll fight to eliminate waste and help return common sense to the halls of Congress.

  • campaign contact: (217) 954-1536
    116 N. Chestnut St., Suite 216, Champaign, IL 61820
  • campaign email: Gill2010@gmail.com
  • campaign website: Gill2010.com

Illinois Constitutional Officers

Pat Quinn, Governor

Sheila Simon, Lieutenant Governor

The Illinois Education Association has endorsed the Quinn/Simon ticket in the November gubernatorial election. Citing the team’s commitment to education for every child across our state, IEA President Ken Swanson said, “There never has been a more clear-cut choice for governor and lieutenant governor of Illinois.”

Governor Quinn also announced that Sheila Simon will serve as Point Person on Education for the Administration. Sheila’s education background will serve her well as we continue to move Illinois forward and provide a first-rate education to every child in Illinois.

Jesse White, Secretary of State

The Illinois Secretary of State’s office is the largest and most diverse office of its kind in the nation, providing more direct services to the people of Illinois than any other public agency. White’s office issues state ID cards, vehicle license plates and titles; registers corporations; enforces the Illinois Securities Act; administers the Organ Donor Program; and licenses drivers and maintains driver records. As State Librarian, Secretary White oversees the State Library and literacy programs, and as State Archivist, he maintains records of legal or historic value.

Lisa Madigan, Attorney General

As the People’s Lawyer, Lisa Madigan has presided over what can only be described as a groundbreaking tenure as the Attorney General of Illinois. She has proven herself to be an innovative champion of consumer rights and a tough and unwavering advocate for children and senior citizens.She has demonstrated a commitment to fight for the people of Illinois, regardless of the opponent – big utilities, sex offenders, mortgage predators or corrupt public officials. Lisa Madigan represents a new generation of public servant who puts ordinary people above political gain.

Robin Kelly, Treasurer

Robin Kelly is a proven leader that Illinois residents can count on to make a positive difference in their lives. From her public service in central Illinois and the south suburbs to her groundbreaking work as chief of staff to the Illinois State Treasurer, Robin has demonstrated she can create jobs, protect taxpayer dollars and serve as a consumer advocate for Illinoisans.

The Chicago Tribune, recognizing Robin’s record of accomplishment, endorsed her in the February Democratic primary stating, “(W)e’re really impressed with Kelly’s performance in the legislature and her work in the treasurer’s office.” The Sun-Times’ endorsement said Kelly was the only candidate with “the right experience, temperament and background for the job.” And the Peoria Journal-Star endorsed her as a “better fit in a cash-strapped state.” Robin’s broad appeal led her to victory in the primary, winning 94 out of 102 counties.

  • campaign contact: (708) 382-0643
    P.O. Box 6953, Chicago, IL 60680
  • campaign website: RobinForTreasurer.com

David Miller, Comptroller

I’m tired of budget gimmicks and pay-to-play politics. That’s exactly what’s wrong with Illinois government – payoffs for the insiders at the expense of the taxpayers.

As your Comptroller, I will open up our state’s finances to regular people like you and me through our website, as well as with surveys seeking your input on our spending priorities.

You deserve both input and information on exactly how your tax dollars are being spent. The more transparent our budget is, the healthier our economy will be. And that means more jobs for everyone.

I’ll also protect the jobs we have. I’ll make sure that companies getting tax breaks keep their jobs here…in Illinois. And I’ll hold accountable any business that violates labor or environmental standards.

  • campaign contact: (708) 849-7372
    1350 E. Sibley Bl Suite 202, Dolton, IL
  • campaign website: DavidMillerForIllinois

Illinois General Assembly

Michael Frerichs, Senator, 52nd District

Mike Frerichs was elected to the General Assembly in 2006. Since being elected Mike Frerichs has stood tall for the 52nd district. He championed a $30 billion capital improvement plan to fund road and infrastructure improvements in Champaign and Vermilion Counties. As Chairman of the Agricultural Committee, he has provided financial assistance to farmers and advocated for alternative fuels. As Vice-Chairman of the Education Committee, Frerichs has funded improvements at the University of Illinois, Parkland College and Danville Community College while fighting to reduce Illinois’ disparities in education funding. He currently resides in Champaign with his wife Laura and his daughter Ella.

  • campaign contact: (217) 352-MIKE
    45 E. University Av Suite 205, Champaign, IL 61820
  • campaign website: MikeForIllinois.com

Josh Weger, Senator, 55th District

Josh Weger comes from a family of farmers, teachers, small business owners, nurses and blue collar workers. He grew up in Lawrenceville and the Weger family has called Lawrence County home for more than a century. Josh has devoted his life to public service, economic development, and standing up for downstate Illinois.

Josh stands at the front lines in the fight for our economic future as Regional Manager for the Illinois Department of Commerce & Economic Opportunity (DCEO) and board member of the Southeastern Illinois Economic Development Authority (SIEDA). Josh works everyday with cities, counties, businesses, community colleges, chambers, unions and economic development councils to retain and create jobs, invest in community infrastructure, and provide job training for workers.

Josh is running for the Illinois State senate to bring jobs and growth to the 55th district, work for a real solution to the state’s budget crisis, and reform Illinois politics. Josh will bring common sense values and a results-driven, bipartisan governing approach to Springfield. In the State Senate, Josh will defend our values and fight to secure the continued viability of our communities.

Naomi Jakobsson, Representative, 103rd District

Naomi Jakobsson was elected to the General Assembly in the fall of 2002 to represent the 103rd Representative District. She was re-elected to the General Assembly in the fall of 2004, 2006, and 2008. She formerly served as Champaign County Recorder for 12 years, Interim Director of Domestic Violence Shelter, and the Executive Director of the University YWCA. Naomi received a BA in History from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign in 1977 and a MA in Teaching English as a Second Language in 1979 from UIUC. Naomi taught English as a Second Language in the Urbana Schools and also taught at the Intensive English Institute at UIUC. Naomi and her husband Eric have been active in adoptive services and parent support groups through the adoption of six of their eight children. They have eleven grandchildren. Naomi’s Legislative assignments are: Adoption Reform; Appropriations-Elementary and Secondary Education; Appropriations-Higher Education; Higher Education,Vice-Chair; and Human Services, Chairman.

Michael Puhr, Representative, 104th District

As a member of the Danville City Council since 2001, Michael Puhr has championed initiatives to put people back to work—a mission he will continue as a legislator. Puhr backed the creation of an infrastructure development fund, which spurred several commercial expansions and new construction, and he has been a vocal advocate for T.I.F. Districts and rebates in order to make East Central Illinois an attractive place for potential employers.

As State Representative, Puhr will continue his focus on creating jobs by backing efforts to put Illinois in a competitive position in a global economy.

Dennis Malak, Representative, 110th District

Dennis Malak is 28 years old. He grew up in the suburbs of Chicago and moved to central Illinois to attend Eastern Illinois University (EIU). He soon felt right at home in the more laid back lifestyle of rural America. While working in his undergraduate program, Dennis attained many budgeting accolades in a statewide mock government activity, and was the longest serving student member of the EIU Judicial Affairs Board.

It was in his undergraduate time in the Political Science Department that Dennis began to aspire to work in politics to craft laws and cast votes to help others and protect our nation’s ideals. Dennis is becoming involved in politics at this time because he feels that the partisanship currently within the system is stopping policy that would benefit the public. He believes that it is important to keep an open mind and look at every angle of an issue in order to craft meaningful and long lasting legislation. For too long now, politics have been put before people. Dennis’s decision to enter politics now is an effort to reverse that trend and put people before politics.

Dennis is a conservative democrat who believes that social progress cannot be sustained by suffocating the citizenry in mountains of debt.

Champaign County Board

Eric Thorsland, District 1

Eric Thorsland 2010A husband and father, Eric is currently serving on the County Zoning Board of Appeals, serves as a board member of the Mahomet Area Youth Club, and is a Mahomet Lions member.
He is an Organic farmer, an avid hunter, a motorcyclist of 30 years. Eric works at the Nuclear Physics Department of the University of Illinois as a Research Engineer.
Eric supports fiscal responsibility, reducing the size of the County Board, spending within revenue. He supports establishment of a better County building maintenance fund, re-evaluating the County role in new road construction with a focus on maintenance of current infrastructure. He believes fostering agriculture as a business is a top priority and a major part of Champaign County.
Eric wants to be the best representative you can have working for you.

Lorraine Cowart, District 5

Pattsi Petrie, District 6 (Vote for 2)

Vote for both Pattsi Petrie and Michael Richards in District 6!

Forty years—in Champaign County, city of Champaign district 6, same street, and same house. Pattsi, an urban planner, has worked toward creating a great place to live, raised a family, and completed two advanced degrees at the university. For details visit her web site.

Pattsi’s campaign issue is sustainability for Champaign County. She will work toward economic sustainability through fiscal efficiency, economic development, making use of loans for small businesses as one means, and stabilization of county taxes. Next she will work toward environmental sustainability engaging the recently passed Land Resource Management Plan (LRMP) that includes preservation and conservation of farm land, support for the highest and best use of non-farm land, protection of water quality and quantity, creation of trails for hiking and biking, and conservation of energy resources. And last she will work toward social sustainability through access to health care, production of local foods, provision of housing to meet county population needs, and diversified jury selection.

Community planning in the district, city, and county is at a pivotal point. The growth and sprawl in both cities affects the county. The residents of the county put in a great deal of time, thought, and effort during the one-year BigSmallAll process and the development of the LRMP. The momentum is significant and not to be diminished. Concerns about sustainability—economic, environmental, and social—has become part of the daily conversation.

These past experiences, urban planning knowledge, and working toward a sustainable county are the reasons Pattsi deserves your vote for the County Board.

Pattsi is open to your concerns, questions, and new ideas for the community. And as she goes door-to-door here in Champaign, she’d also appreciate your help! Please send her an email to pattsi2@gmail.com. You can also read more about Pattsi at her website: www.pattsipetrie.info.

Michael Richards, District 6 (Vote for 2)

Vote for both Michael Richards and Pattsi Petrie in District 6!

Alan Kurtz, District 7

    Alan Kurtz has a record of leadership in our community and on the Champaign County Board.

    The owner of Blimpie Sub & Salads for 11 years in the heart of campustown, Al is a longtime supporter of Illini athletics and was a leader in the effort to end Green Street flooding. He’s a past president of the Champaign County Humane Society, and a current member of the Champaign Consortium, a four-county agency that prepares unemployed workers for new jobs.

    As a member of the County Board, Alan Kurtz has worked to ensure county operations run efficiently, so we get maximum value for our tax dollars. He successfully forged the bipartisan supermajority that enacted the County’s Wind Farm Ordinance, which promises to create thousands of jobs and add tens of millions in revenue for our county. As vice-chair of the County’s Environment and Land Use Committee, Al worked to develop and adopt a comprehensive Land Resource Management plan that will protect our prime farmland for future generations.

    Married to Linda Kurtz for 46 years, Al has two sons and three wonderful grandchildren.

    Alan Kurtz is working hard on the County Board and on the campaign trail! With your support, we can keep Al’s leadership on the County Board, and we can keep Champaign County moving forward!

  • campaign contact: (217) 356-0011
    710 Ashton Lane South, Champaign, IL 61820
  • campaign email: AKurtz8@comcast.net

Thomas Betz, District 8 (Vote for 2)

Vote for both Thomas Betz and Ralph Langenheim in District 8!

Tom Betz has been a progressive voice for responsive & responsible government on the County Board since 1996. As chair of the Policy, Personnel & Appointments Committee, Tom has supported the appointment of strong conservationists to the county’s Forest Preserve Board. He wrote the ordinance that requires five percent of the quarter-cent sales tax be used to prevent repeat juvenile offenses. Tom also has been a consistent supporter of the Champaign County Nursing Home, the County Public Health District, and Champaign County Head Start.

Active in our community, Tom Betz is a member of the Champaign-Urbana Tenant Union Board of Directors, a member of the Champaign County Bar Association, and a five-term president of the Champaign County ACLU. He is Director of University of Illinois Student Legal Services, providing preventive legal education and counseling to U of I students.

Tom Betz has been an effective and valuable Board member, selected twice by his colleagues to serve as County Board vice-chair. He and his wife Jane Williams live in Urbana. They have two children.

Ralph Langenheim, District 8 (Vote for 2)

Vote for both Ralph Langenheim and Thomas Betz in District 8!

A Professor of Geology (retired) at the University of Illinois, Ralph Langenheim understands the bedrock principles of good government.

Ralph has served on the Champaign County Board since 1998, and chaired the county’s Environment and Land Use Committee from 2000-2006. He worked to develop and pass the County’s first-ever comprehensive Land Resource Management Plan. He supports efforts to protect the Mahomet Aquifer as our water source for future generations, and advocates for zoning policies that sustain sustainable land uses and protect prime farmland.

In difficult economic times, Ralph has worked to stretch every dollar in the County budget to make sure taxpayers get value for their money, without sacrificing important services like Mental Health programs, Juvenile Delinquency prevention, Public Health, or our County Nursing Home. He understands the long-term social costs of gutting these programs would far exceed any temporary budget benefit in the short-term.

Ralph Langenheim served on the Urbana Human Relations Commission from 2000 to 2006. He’s a member of Urbana Rotary and past president of the Illinois Geological Society. Ralph Langenheim is a D-Day veteran, and a member of the Champaign County Veterans Association.

Ralph Langenheim lives in Urbana with his wife M. Casey Diana. He has two children and two step-children.

  • campaign contact: (217) 344-5285
    401 W. Vermont, Urbana, IL 61801
  • campaign email: rlangenh@hotmail.com

Chris Alix, District 9 (Vote for 2)

Vote for both Chris Alix and James Quisenberry in District 9!

I’m Chris Alix—longtime Urbana resident, longtime Democrat, University of Illinois alumnus and small business owner. I want to represent District 9 on the Champaign County Board. I’m proud of my respected history as a consensus-builder in Urbana-Champaign local government and look forward to bringing my experience and perspective to the issues facing Champaign County in these challenging times.

I’d appreciate your support in the November 2, 2010 general election!

  • campaign contact: (217) 337-6744
    301 East George Huff Drive, Urbana, IL 61801
  • campaign email: Chris@alix9.com
  • campaign website: Alix9.com

James Quisenberry, District 9 (Vote for 2)

Vote for both James Quisenberry and Chiris Alix in District 9!

I am not running for County Board with a single issue or a set agenda. I am running because I have a passion for public service. I am running to contribute my expertise, my organizational skills, and my commitment to listen to all parties and seek common ground to meet the challenges we face in Champaign County..

Please contact me or visit my website for details on my background and positions.

Note To Candidates

If you would like your biography and photo included on this page, please send them to the webmaster.

Relative to georgian America site - Eldhino recommends it for georgian Diaspora in USA. | permit practice test nc free | Download flash player, have and use it for youtube videos and other flash stuff. | car insurance quotes online | low auto insurance rates pa | People say superb site to download action movie of great quality.