UPDATE: With just over one month until the crucial March 17, 2024 primary, tensions are escalating between the two Democratic candidates for the Illinois Senate 9th District. Candidate Patrick Hanley and Rachel Ruttenberg are sharply contrasting their political experiences as they aim to win over voters.
In a dramatic turn of events, Ruttenberg has intensified her campaign strategy by distributing flyers that label Hanley a “former management consultant” lacking “applicable experience” in healthcare policy. Hanley responded via social media, calling the flyer a “goofy negative mailer,” and emphasized that his campaign is rooted in positivity and community engagement.
Ruttenberg’s extensive background includes serving as deputy chief of staff under Toni Preckwinkle, president of the Cook County Board, and advocacy roles in the education sector. She currently holds a position as the deputy committeeperson for the Democratic Party of Evanston. Hanley, on the other hand, boasts leadership roles in local nonprofits and co-founded the voting advocacy initiative Operation Swing State alongside Preckwinkle and outgoing U.S. Representative Jan Schakowsky.
In an interview with The Daily, Ruttenberg stated, “I have a lot of relevant experience, so that’s what we’re trying to point out in our mailers,” underscoring her commitment to conveying her qualifications to voters. Hanley criticized the flyer, describing it as a “disappointing mischaracterization” and asserting that his collaborative work with state agencies during the COVID-19 pandemic demonstrates his capability in healthcare policy.
The debate over experience took center stage during a candidate forum hosted by the League of Women Voters at the Glenview Public Library on Thursday evening, where both candidates presented their platforms to an audience of approximately 100 attendees. Despite their contrasting backgrounds, both candidates align on multiple policy issues, including a progressive income tax and strategies to enhance affordable housing.
Neither candidate utilized their rebuttal opportunities during the forum, but Ruttenberg emphasized her extensive experience in her closing remarks, declaring, “I’ve done the real work for more than 20 years.” In response, Hanley argued for the necessity of diversity in experiences for the role, stating, “What folks are looking for is active, energetic leadership that is engaging with the community.”
The forum’s atmosphere remained focused on policy rather than personal attacks, with both candidates agreeing on significant issues, including their stance against using public funds to retain the Chicago Bears in Illinois. Hanley expressed appreciation for the Chicago Tribune Editorial Board endorsement he received earlier that day, interpreting it as a “good characterization” of the race thus far.
As the primary approaches, the candidates’ contrasting experience narratives are poised to shape voter perceptions. With both candidates appealing to a progressive base, the outcome will hinge on how effectively they can convey their distinct qualifications to the electorate.
What happens next? Voters will be watching closely as the candidates ramp up their campaigns in the coming weeks, with the primary election just around the corner.
