Howdy folks. I wanted to drop you a line a give you a volunteer's eye view of what's happening with the Pete Gutzmer for Illinois State Senate. Allow me to net it out for you: it's all GREAT!
His honor, Lt. Governor Patrick Quinn held a fundraiser for Pete at Durty Nellie's in the heart of Palatine a couple of weeks ago. Beating everyone's expectations, 70 people came out to support Pete. This is huge in the district that gave us Phil Crane, Pete Fitzgerald and was part of Rumsfield's congressional seat. This speaks volumes, not only about Pete, but also the change attitudes in the area. People have had it with the GOP locally and nationally.
But don't take my word for it. Her Honor, Mayor Rita Mullins of Palatine, a life long Republican and the challenger to Pete's opponent in the GOP primary, ENDORSED PETE. Ok. Let me say that again ENDORSED PETE. This is unheard of...unprecedented...just plain amazing (and might I add, well deserved). Ms. Mullins cited Pete's moderate stance on important issues (in stark contrast to his opponent), indicating that Pete's opponent "scare's" her. Her fellow Republican "scares her". This quote was printed in the local paper
http://www.dailyherald.com/...=
And although the district is assuredly changing in our favor, not all is rosy. Pete was asked his stance on guns and abortion. This is his response:
Thank you for contacting me, I find it truly encouraging to see people engaged in the political process because your right, voters are essentially responsibly for those whom they elect.
My position on Abortion is as follows: I am not for abortions, any woman or couple who must go through that moral tragedy is a shame. As to when life begins, I believe that is a question for each of us to address personally via our faith and belief structure. Because of this I want to do two things. The first is abortion should always be legal, its illegality pushes a dangerous medical procedure into the shadows and I believe that could be catastrophic to the reproductive health of all women. The second involves an effort to always reduce the number abortions performed each year. I believe that through comprehensive sex education and the interest of engaged parents, we can arm our children with the knowledge of the responsibilities and consequences that come along with having sex. This is an issue that touches people in the most deep of personal places, but that must not stop us from confronting these issues from a rational perspective, one that will allow us to progress rather than regress.
My position on gun control is as follows: I am a gun owner, I own a handgun, a rifle, and a shotgun. As a sportsman I am more than willing to jump through any hoops conceivable when purchasing or using my firearms to ensure these weapons do not fall into the wrong hands. I do believe that every law-abiding citizen has the right to own a firearm. I was also glad that you asked about assault weapons. I find no earthly reason why an average citizen would have a need for weapons specifically designed for military use, I do support an assault weapons ban. Furthermore I do think there is more we can do to track and monitor the sale of firearms in Illinois, and all that can be done to keep our children safe from domestic accidents should be done.
Again I thank you for your engagement. The one promise I can make to all the people of the 27th district is that I am here to listen and will always work for them. My only interest is their interest and what is best for the state of Illinois.
Peter Gutzmer
Democratic Candidate for Illinois Senate 27th district
A well-reasoned and thoughtful response. Take a look how Pete is vilified, misrepresented, (albeit with a couple of kudos) by very brave, although tremendously anonymous "defenders" of the second amendment and zygotes.
http://concealcarry.org/...
They even have the good taste to call Pete, a first responder and a real live American hero a "bozo".
You may be asking yourself, "Why should I give a damn?". Here's why
§ We only have a three seat majority in the Illinois Senate.
§ Pete has a real shot at winning a seat that hasn't seen a Democrat's bottom in more than a generation
§ Pete is a true progressive with great ideas and the ability to get things done
§ He respects this community and has made an effort to connect through his campaign staff and me. You may ask "why isn't Pete blogging himself?" He's walking precincts, getting endorsements, and meeting people...while pulling full shifts at the firehouse
§ This race, and many others across the country, is where the 50 state strategy becomes REAL. Pete winning here will help build the capability and capacity of the local party which will in turn translate into national victory
§ Mayor Mullins is one of many local Republicans who are coming out to support Pete. The tide is turning
§ Pete represents what is best about our community: Duty, Honor, Integrity
§ Pete is a good man, my neighbor (his campaign HQ is about 100 feet from my house), and a friend. It is my honor to be even remotely associated with his campaign
That's it. Almost. Please take a look at http://www.votegutzmer.org/ and see what a good guy Pete is for yourself. Send him your thoughts on the campaign and how we can make Illinois better. If you are local, consider volunteering (they are phone banking hard in the next few weeks). And if you can spare a few bucks, consider giving a donation.
These are exciting times and we are ready to WIN!