ENDORSEMENT: Martha Paschke for 65th Illinois House

Martha Paschke has never before sought elected office, but we believe her smart, issues-oriented campaign should earn her a spot in the General Assembly.

Based on her background and community involvement, we see the Geneva activist and mother as a much-needed voice in Springfield, speaking up on behalf of social programs and non-profit organizations that are likely to be left vulnerable due to the COVID-19 crisis and the state’s mounting budget problems.

In the wake of the George Floyd killing, the Democrat also promises to stand in favor of police reform, if elected.

Among the changes she seeks, Paschke wants police departments to be demilitarized and do a better job of getting rid of bad officers. She favors the widespread use of police body cameras, as well.

Paschke is endorsed over her Republican opponent, incumbent State Rep. Dan Ugaste.

Illustration by Caroline Hurley

To read more Sun-Times endorsements, please go to suntimes.com/political-endorsements. For more information about this race and others, including candidate questionnaires, go to our Illinois voting guide. Our newspaper is owned by a group of civic-minded and, in some cases, politically active investors; for details, see our owner information page.

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