Story posted Thursday, September 10, 2009
Long Grove Mayor To Run For U.S. House
By RICHARD MAYER Assistant Managing Editor
Can Long Grove Village President Maria Rodriguez dethrone current Congresswoman Melissa Bean in the 8th congressional U.S. House district? Rodriguez, 50, running as a Republican, is throwing her hat into the ring after becoming "disenchanted" with the political figures she currently sees in office.
"The arrogance and lack of representation have reached a critical level," Rodriguez told the Journal & Topics Newspapers. "More importantly, though, is the lack of visibility. Our government was founded on the principal of by the people for the people, and those currently in office don't seem to remember they are meant to be a voice for those they represent, a focal point of all the philosophies and views of their constituents."
Rodriguez declined to comment on what she would say in response to those who claim she is quitting on residents of Long Grove.
"I have demonstrated strengths in building consensus, even when the issue is controversial," said Rodriguez. "In the last election, even when several mayors in surrounding villages were not re-elected, I ran unopposed."
Bean recently talked about health care in a secured setting with the Lake Zurich Chamber of Commerce. Rodriguez believes in holding several open forums with the public.
"I am going to start town hall meetings," said Rodriguez. "Together with State Sen. Dan Duffy and State Rep. Ed Sullivan, I am hosting an open town hall meeting to listen what the residents of the 8th district have to say."
The town hall meeting is scheduled for Saturday, Sept. 26, but a location has yet to be determined.
"I believe that Bean's votes have been safe," said Rodriguez. "When you first get into office, it is acceptable to keep your head down while you get the lay of the land. But in her third term to still be playing it safe, to not have stepped up as a leader is unacceptable."
Rodriguez has served as mayor of Long Grove since 2005. If elected as congresswoman next year, Rodriguez said sitting Long Grove village trustees would appoint a president pro-tempore to replace her. The 8th District serves small portions of Arlington Hts., Elk Grove Village, Palatine and Rolling Meadows, extending north into Lake and McHenry counties and south into a small portion of DuPage County.
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