The lights were dim as nervous chatter filled a packed room at the American Legion in La Grange. Residents from across the area gathered to hear from candidates running in the March Democratic primary. Slated and non-slated candidates alike took part as members of Indivisible West Suburban Chicago, union members, veterans, musicians, teachers, retirees, and faith leaders mingled while waiting to hear how candidates would address affordability, healthcare, and the fragile state of democracy in America.
Host, Township Clerk and candidate for County Commissioner Elyse Hoffenberg welcomed the crowd by quoting Alexander Hamilton: “Here, sir, the people govern.” Hoffenberg added, “Not the loudest voice or the wealthiest donor, it’s the people who govern. Voting isn’t a popularity contest; it’s a hiring decision. Tonight is about choosing candidates who are competent, share our values, and have the courage to do what is right.”
The first candidates to take the stage were Comptroller candidates Senator Karina Villa and State Representative Margaret Croke, who both emphasized accountability, transparency, and strong financial oversight. Dr. Patty Garcia followed and energized the crowd. Later in the evening, when Cook County Board of Review Commissioner George Cardenas was introduced, Democratic Committeeman Steve Landek highlighted the importance of maintaining the office’s independence. “Our current Assessor is not a bad guy,” Landek said, “but if Board of Review” members are ‘his,’ they may be more inclined to confirm the Assessor’s assessments. As mayor of a village where people work hard for every dollar, it’s essential residents have an independent second opinion.”
Landek also introduced Cook County Assessor candidate and Lyons Township Assessor Pat Hynes, praising him as someone with “the experience, grit, and heart to fix a property tax system that has been broken for far too long.” Candidates for State Representative, County Commissioner, the Metropolitan Water Reclamation District, and judicial seats rounded out the evening.
By the end of the night, attendees left both entertained and better informed. “I learned something about each of the candidates, and it was fun at the same time,” said Mariam Ahmad.
