Southland voters seek economic development ahead of 2nd Congressional district race
After a forum featuring candidates in the race for Illinois’ 2nd Congressional district, Southland voters reflected on the objectives they seek from their ideal candidate.
Southland voters are weighing their options following a candidate forum for Illinois’ Second Congressional district race held on Feb. 21.
Co-hosted by the League of Women Voters and Chicago Southland Chamber of Commerce, the two-forum event featured candidates in both the United States House 2nd Congressional district and Illinois’ United States Senate races for the March 17 primary election. In attendance were Democratic candidates Eric France, Robert Peters, Willie Preston, and Adal Regis. Donna Miller arrived just in time for the final question as there was miscommunication on the start time between her staff and the organizers.
Candidates shared their views on immigration reform, balance of power between states and the federal government, the long-discussed South Suburban airport, federal cuts in diversity, equity, and inclusion, and social media bans for children. They also shared their experiences managing a staff and providing constituent services.
For many Southland voters, economic development is at the forefront when selecting new leadership. Hazel Crest resident Karmaleta Cooper-Mosley said there is a lack of economic investment going towards marginalized communities despite residents paying higher taxes.
“We are paying a fortune in taxes, but we’re on the map as not being worthy and deserving of the same kinds of services and amenities that other communities receive for the level of taxation,” Cooper-Mosley said.
Cooper-Mosley said the economic challenges will determine whether or not she continues to live in Hazel Crest. “It has reached a point of my saying, ‘Does this make sense?’ Economically, it’s no longer making sense. Healthwise, it’s no longer making sense.”
Janet Hadnott from Glenwood is an active member in her community and plans to share the information she learned with others. Like Cooper-Mosley, economic development in the Southland is her top priority.
“I feel like the south suburbs is the baldheaded stepchild of Cook County,” Hadnot said. “I just would like to see more investment, more opportunities…just more of what some of the north and west suburbs have.”
Hadnot is still waiting to hear from candidates who did not attend the forum before making a decision.
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