We are writing to express our disappointment in the lack of coverage the Tribune gave to our organization’s assembly with the candidates for attorney general on March 7. Given the regular drumbeat the Tribune has sustained in its endorsements and election-related editorials, calling for candidates and campaigns to focus on the issues important to voters, it seems ironic that you missed this citizen-led effort to alter politics as usual.
More than 500 Southwest Siders gathered. Lisa Madigan, John Schmidt and Bob Coleman considered these voters important enough to attend. The candidates heard firsthand from families terrorized by gang violence and duped by predatory lenders. A 12-year-old girl described her experience of being caught in gang crossfire. In the end, each of the candidates was asked nine yes-or-no questions about specific actions they will take to address these issues if elected attorney general. That’s right: yes or no, two simple words we all understand.
