UPDATE: With just over one month until the March 17 primary election, the race for the Illinois Senate seat in the 9th district is heating up as candidates Patrick Hanley and Rachel Ruttenberg sharpen their attacks over their political experience. As voters prepare to hit the polls, both candidates are focusing on what sets them apart, despite sharing similar policy positions.
Ruttenberg recently mailed out flyers branding Hanley as a “former management consultant” lacking “applicable experience” in healthcare policy. In a swift rebuttal, Hanley took to Instagram, labeling the flyer a “goofy negative mailer” and asserting that his campaign is built on “optimism and positivity.” He called out Ruttenberg’s approach as “soaked in negativity and misdirection.”
In a campaign marked by contrasting backgrounds, Ruttenberg boasts extensive experience as a former deputy chief of staff under Toni Preckwinkle, current president of the Cook County Board of Commissioners. She has also worked as a policy advocate for Chicago Public Schools and non-profit organizations, currently serving as the Democratic Party of Evanston’s deputy committeeperson.
On the other hand, Hanley holds board positions on various local non-profits and co-founded the voting advocacy program Operation Swing State with Preckwinkle and outgoing U.S. Rep. Jan Schakowsky (D-Evanston). Hanley emphasized his collaboration with state agencies and local governments during the COVID-19 pandemic as critical experience that countered Ruttenberg’s claims.
In a candidate forum hosted by the League of Women Voters on Thursday evening, both candidates presented their visions to around 100 attendees. While they agree on pivotal issues such as a progressive income tax and increasing affordable housing, they diverged on the significance of their experiences. Ruttenberg asserted her “relevant direct experience,” stating, “I’ve done the real work for more than 20 years.”
Hanley countered, emphasizing the need for a candidate with a diverse range of experiences. “What folks are looking for is active, energetic leadership engaging with the community,” he declared.
The forum remained civil, focusing on policy rather than personal attacks. Both candidates expressed opposition to using public funds to retain the Chicago Bears in Illinois, showcasing their alignment on some issues.
DPOE President Kathy Hayes commented on the importance of legislative experience, noting, “We need people that are primed and experienced in handling policy and intergovernmental affairs. It can’t be a guessing game.”
Hanley received a significant boost earlier today when the Chicago Tribune Editorial Board endorsed him, describing both candidates as “too progressive.” He expressed gratitude for the endorsement, framing it as a positive reflection of the race thus far.
As the primary date approaches, voters are urged to consider the candidates’ contrasting experiences and visions for the future of the 9th district. With both campaigns ramping up their messaging, the coming weeks promise to deliver intense political battles leading up to the crucial election.
Stay tuned for the latest developments in this high-stakes race.
