How Redistricting Impacted the 68th Illinois House Race

The 68^thIllinois House District now includes include east Rockford, Love's Park, Machesney Park and rural western Winnebago County. As a result, the contest pitted a more politically experienced Democrat against a relative political novice.

Democrat Carl Wasco attempted to sell voters on his experience as a Rockford City Alderman, his term as Chairman of the Rockford Housing Authority, and his extensive public service.

Republican John Cabello on the other hand played up his law enforcement experience. At one point Cabello aired a TV ad done while he appeared to be patrolling the streets of Rockford.He also had outgoing incumbent Winters' support and briefly took over the seat when Winters decided to leave office early.

Each candidate took a fundamentally different approach to solving state budget problems.

Cabello advocated drastic cuts in state spending.Cabello explains "we cut over $39 million in the county's government without reducing services." He adds "If the Winnebago County board can do that, then the state of Illinois can do that."

Wasco countered cutting alone would not solve the state's budget problems while hurting many who rely on state programs. Wasco says "My opponent, he suggested 10% across the board cuts to every department.When you cut across the board 10% on every department, that means human services, education and public safety will take a 10% budget cut. I don't think we can afford to do a 10% across the board cut."