North Cook News

Ruth O’Connell says she knows the kind of leader best-suited to replace Rep. Elaine Nekritz (D-Northbrook) in the 57th District.  

“I think that it would be a good idea to have a conservative woman running in this race,” O'Connell, the Wheeling GOP committeeman, told the North Cook News. “I think a young woman with a family that understands the concerns of the families of this district would be ideal. I believe the voters of the 57th District will connect more with this type of candidate and will also feel more comfortable.”

While O'Connell acknowledged having a particular person or two in mind, she refused to identify anyone.

Rep. Elaine Nekritz

“There are a couple of people looking at the seat that I think would be perfect, but I don’t want to get ahead of the process,” she said. “It’s fair to say that we will be working very hard for that seat and in this upcoming race.”

O’Connell said the district needs the kind of Republican principles she has long championed.

“This seat belongs in Republican hands,” she said. “Everyone is ready for a fresh face, and this will be a good change. With all the issues the residents of the district and the state are facing, we need someone who understands and stands for sound fiscal policies.”

While O’Connell says she was surprised to hear Nekritz was walking away after more than 16 years and three terms, she added that she is starting to believe Nekritz might not be idle for long.

“I hear she plans to step down early and may be considering a run for Illinois attorney general,” she said.

Nekritz announced her decision in June, saying she would leave at an "appropriate time" before her term ends. Illinois' current attorney general, Lisa Madigan, recently announced that she will not be seeking re-election in 2018.