URGENT UPDATE: Just over a month before the highly anticipated March 17 primary, the two Democratic candidates for the Illinois Senate in the 9th district are engaged in a fierce battle to highlight their contrasting political experiences. Candidates Patrick Hanley and Rachel Ruttenberg are ramping up their campaigns to differentiate themselves amid a tightly contested race.
Ruttenberg recently mailed out flyers branding Hanley as a “former management consultant” lacking “applicable experience” in healthcare policy. In response, Hanley took to social media on Thursday, labeling the mailer as “goofy negativity” and asserting that his campaign is based on “optimism and positivity.” This escalating tension reflects a critical moment in a race where both candidates largely align on policy issues but differ on their professional backgrounds.
Ruttenberg, who has served as deputy chief of staff under Toni Preckwinkle, brings over 20 years of relevant experience, including roles as a policy advocate for Chicago Public Schools and various nonprofits. She currently holds a position with the Democratic Party of Evanston. On the other hand, Hanley boasts a history of community organizing and co-founding the voting advocacy program Operation Swing State with Preckwinkle and outgoing U.S. Rep. Jan Schakowsky.
In a conversation with The Daily on Thursday, Ruttenberg stated she had not seen Hanley’s Instagram stories due to her busy schedule canvassing. “I have a lot of relevant experience, so that’s what we’re trying to point out in our mailers,” she emphasized, asserting that her campaign is effectively conveying its message.
Hanley refuted Ruttenberg’s claims, declaring the flyer a “disappointing mischaracterization” of his healthcare policy experience, which includes collaboration with state agencies during the COVID-19 pandemic. “Politics can be better than that,” he stated, urging for a more constructive campaign strategy.
The debate over experience continued at a candidate forum hosted by the League of Women Voters at the Glenview Public Library on Thursday, where around 100 attendees listened to both candidates present their platforms. While they share common ground on issues like a progressive income tax and increasing affordable housing, neither candidate utilized their rebuttal opportunities during the event.
Ruttenberg emphasized her extensive background during her closing statement, claiming, “I’ve done the real work for more than 20 years.” She asserted that her experience is particularly relevant, especially as she draws on her time with Preckwinkle. Hanley countered by asserting the need for a candidate with a “diversity of experiences,” stating, “What folks are looking for, what they are so desperate for at this moment, is active, energetic leadership.”
DPOE President Kathy Hayes, who has worked with both candidates, highlighted the need for effective legislative skills, stating, “We need people that are primed and experienced in handling policy and intergovernmental affairs. It can’t be a guessing game.”
Despite the competitive nature of their campaigns, the forum maintained a focus on policy over personal attacks, with both candidates sharing similar views on issues such as funding for the Chicago Bears.
Additionally, Hanley expressed gratitude for the Chicago Tribune Editorial Board’s endorsement received earlier that morning, describing it as a “good characterization” of the race thus far.
As the primary date approaches, voters are urged to consider the candidates’ contrasting experiences and their implications for the future of the Illinois Senate. This developing story reflects a crucial moment in local politics, with significant ramifications for the community.
Stay tuned for more updates as the candidates continue to campaign aggressively in the lead-up to the primary election.
