UPDATE: With just over one month until the March 17 primary, tensions rise as Democratic candidates for the Illinois Senate 9th District, Patrick Hanley and Rachel Ruttenberg, intensify their focus on contrasting their political experiences. This surge in campaign activity comes as both candidates seek to establish themselves as the frontrunner in an increasingly competitive race.
Candidates are emphasizing their unique qualifications, despite sharing similar policy positions. Last week, Ruttenberg distributed flyers branding Hanley as a “former management consultant” lacking relevant experience in healthcare policy. In response, Hanley took to social media on Thursday to denounce the flyer as a “goofy negative mailer,” asserting that his campaign is rooted in “optimism and positivity.” He described Ruttenberg’s tactics as “soaked in negativity and misdirection.”
Ruttenberg, who has served as deputy chief of staff under Cook County Board President Toni Preckwinkle, is currently the deputy committeeperson for the Democratic Party of Evanston. She also has a history of advocacy for Chicago Public Schools and various nonprofit organizations. Hanley, on the other hand, has held board positions on multiple local nonprofits and co-founded the voting advocacy group Operation Swing State alongside Preckwinkle and outgoing U.S. Rep. Jan Schakowsky.
In an interview with The Daily, Ruttenberg stated she had not yet seen Hanley’s Instagram stories as she was busy canvassing. “I have a lot of relevant experience, so that’s what we’re trying to point out in our mailers,” she said. “I think we’re getting the message across.”
Hanley countered by expressing disappointment over the flyer, claiming it misrepresented his qualifications, particularly regarding his collaboration with state agencies and local governments during the COVID-19 pandemic. “Politics can be better than that,” he remarked, urging for more constructive campaign tactics.
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 approximately 100 attendees gathered. Both candidates reiterated their shared policy goals, including support for a progressive income tax and increased affordable housing. However, neither utilized the two rebuttals available during the forum. In her closing remarks, Ruttenberg emphasized her “relevant direct experience,” referring to her two decades of work in various roles.
Hanley challenged Ruttenberg’s assertion, advocating for a candidate with a “diversity of experiences,” highlighting the need for “active, energetic leadership that is engaging with the community.”
Kathy Hayes, president of the Democratic Party of Evanston, acknowledged her familiarity with both candidates but withheld her endorsement, emphasizing the necessity for effective legislation and experience in handling policy and intergovernmental affairs. “It can’t be a guessing game,” she stated.
Despite the competitive atmosphere, the forum maintained a focus on policy rather than personal attacks. Both candidates expressed opposition to using public funds to retain the Chicago Bears in Illinois. Following the forum, Hanley shared that he appreciated the Chicago Tribune Editorial Board’s endorsement, which labeled both candidates as “too progressive.”
As the primary election approaches, the race intensifies with critical debates on experience and leadership styles. Voters are urged to remain engaged as both candidates prepare for the final stretch leading to the vote on March 17.
