North Cook News

A campaign donation from the State Democratic Victory Fund to Sen. Ira Silverstein D-Chicago), who was named in a sexual harassment complaint, is par for the course, according to Park Ridge Republican Marilyn Smolenski.

Responding to the Chicago City Wire report titled, “Silverstein re-election bid gets $55,400 boost from State Democratic Victory Fund,” Smolenski, who is vying for the seat in the 55th House District held by Rep. Marty Moylan (D-Des Plaines), told the North Cook News that the campaign contribution reveals the culture in Springfield to protect their own.

“I hope this incident doesn’t deter others who feel as though they’ve been victimized or harassed from coming forward,” Smolenski said. “We need leaders who will stand up to end this type of behavior instead of accepting it as merely ‘unprofessional.’”

According to the Chicago City Wire, Kristen McQueary, a member of the Chicago Tribune editorial board, “recently sent out a message from her personal Twitter account questioning the donation from the State Democratic Victory Fund to Silverstein.”

“Democratic establishment gives $55,400 to Sen. Silverstein. How’s that #metoo movement going, Springfield? Name slightly diff than Cullerton’s (Senate President) PAC but I’m told it’s the same,” reads the tweet that also includes “a photo of the State Board of Elections records showing the donation,” according to the Chicago City Wire.

Smolenski said for three years, dozens of ethics complaints against state legislators were swept under the rug until newly appointed Legislative Inspector General Julie Porter determined Silverstein behaved in a manner "unbecoming of a legislator," but did not engage in sexual harassment.

“Where is the accountability for this disgusting behavior and misuse of power?” Smolenski, who owns Nickel and Lace, a women’s concealed bodywear holster brand, asked.

Illinoisans expect more, Smolenski said. “We entrust politicians with running our local, state and national governments, to maintain the public's trust they should be held to a higher standard of ethical values.”