To hold elected office is to serve the common good. It’s both a worthy and a high calling.

The politician must be accessible and receptive to constituents and be responsive to their needs. It takes political skill to address and balance competing needs.

Linda Parks is such a public servant. She’s present in our community, frequently appearing in public at diverse events. She’s one of the most approachable politicians I’ve ever met, one who sensitively listens to the people she represents.

When she doesn’t agree, she says so. She’s reflective in her actions, which are based on the best interests of the people she serves. Parks has the conviction and strength of character to vote on issues in ways that best represent and protect the district she serves, rather than voting simply along ideological lines.

I question whether Audra Strickland can establish a relationship in four months’ time that would allow her to adequately represent the complex and often conflicting needs of the people.

If elected, I wonder whether Ms. Strickland would vote on issues in ways that best promote the common good of our community regardless of ideology. Is Ms. Strickland’s presence and track record in the Assembly reflective of someone we want? Are Ms. Strickland’s current actions indicative of intentions to best serve us?

I think not.

I urge my fellow voters to vocally, actively and financially support Ms. Parks as she prepares for the upcoming challenge. In the last election cycle, we saw an immense amount of money from outside sources poured into the local campaign. We need to send a clear message that we cannot be bought and that we won’t allow conscientious, hardworking public servants to be smeared. We must support those who have publicly and courageously advocated for and supported us in the halls of government.

Please join me in supporting Linda Parks so she can continue to do the job we elected her to do.
Marie Panec
Oak Park

Panec is a member of the Oak Park Unified School District Board of Education and a can didate for Congress.