UPDATE: Just weeks before the March 17, 2024 primary election, the two Democratic candidates for the Illinois Senate in the 9th district are engaged in a heated battle over their political experience. Candidates Patrick Hanley and Rachel Ruttenberg are racing to distinguish themselves as they prepare for the crucial vote.
In a striking move, Ruttenberg sent out flyers last week attacking Hanley’s qualifications, labeling him a “former management consultant” with “no applicable experience” in healthcare policy. This tactic has sparked a fierce response from Hanley, who took to Instagram on Thursday to denounce the flyer as a “goofy negative mailer.” He asserted that his campaign is built on “optimism and positivity,” contrasting sharply with Ruttenberg’s negative approach.
Ruttenberg, who has served as deputy chief of staff for Cook County Board President Toni Preckwinkle and has experience as a policy advocate for Chicago Public Schools, claims her extensive background provides her with the relevant experience needed for the role. “I have a lot of relevant experience, so that’s what we’re trying to point out in our mailers,” Ruttenberg stated.
Meanwhile, Hanley, who has co-founded the voting advocacy program Operation Swing State, argues that his diverse experiences are vital for leadership in the role soon to be vacated by State Senator Laura Fine (D-Glenview). He expressed disappointment over Ruttenberg’s tactics, stating, “Politics can be better than that.”
The atmosphere intensified during a candidate forum hosted by the League of Women Voters at the Glenview Public Library on Thursday evening, where around 100 attendees gathered. Both candidates presented their platforms but refrained from utilizing the two rebuttals available to them, focusing instead on their policy agreements, such as a progressive income tax and increasing affordable housing.
Ruttenberg emphasized her “relevant direct experience” in her closing statement, referencing her years of service under Preckwinkle, while Hanley countered that voters are seeking “active, energetic leadership that is engaging with the community.”
DPOE President Kathy Hayes, who knows both candidates, highlighted the need for effective legislative skills. “We need people that are primed and experienced in handling policy and intergovernmental affairs,” she remarked, emphasizing the importance of qualifications in these challenging times.
Despite the competitive atmosphere, the candidates maintained a civil discourse, agreeing on significant issues, including the stance against using public funds to retain the Chicago Bears in Illinois. Hanley received a notable endorsement from the Chicago Tribune Editorial Board, labeling both candidates as “too progressive,” which he viewed positively.
As the primary date approaches, both candidates are ramping up their campaigns, and the spotlight remains on their contrasting experiences. Voters are encouraged to stay informed and engaged as this race develops, with significant implications for the future of Illinois policy.
Stay tuned for further updates on this unfolding political drama.
