Both papers say the Indian American is the most qualified candidate to succeed Rep. Tammy Duckworth.
Indian American Raja Krishnamoorthi, who is running for the US House from the open Illinois 8th district, got a shot in the arm this week when the two largest daily newspapers in the Windy City endorsed him: The Chicago Tribune and Chicago Sun-Times.
Chicago Tribune, in an editorial titled “More Tribune endorsements for U.S. House races in Illinois,” endorsed the Democrat, who ran unsuccessfully against Tammy Duckworth in the 2012 Democratic primary for same seat, saying that he is a candidate worthy of succeeding the incumbent.
Duckworth, an Iraqi war veteran, is challengeing Republican US Sen. Mark Kirk.
The rival Sun-Times also endorsed Krishnamoorthi stating that he “would prioritize shoring up Social Security and Medicare; raising the minimum wage nationally; guaranteeing maternity leave and sick leave, and ensuring equal pay for equal work.”
Both newspapers agree that his decision to contest in 2012 Democratic primary against Duckworth, a war hero and who had the complete backing of her party, was a mistake. But they unanimously agree that Krishnamoorthi is the most deserving candidate to represent the 8th district this time.
According to Sun-Times, Krishnamoorthi has the potential to “break that mold of mediocrity.” The newspaper also said Krishnamoorthi, if elected, will give priorities to a few burning issues such as Social Security and Medicare; raising the minimum wage nationally; guaranteeing maternity leave and sick leave, and ensuring equal pay for equal work.
The Tribune hoped that Krishnamoorthi, a former deputy state treasurer and assistant attorney general and the owner of two small high-tech business that has contracts to sell products related to national security and renewable energy, will be able to deliver because of his experience in government, business and politics. “What really sets him apart is a solid, enthusiastic grasp on issues, from immigration to the war on Islamic State,” the Tribune wrote.
Krishnamoorthi, who has the endorsement of President Obama and House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi, is considered one of the emerging young leaders of the Democratic party.
Republican Pete DiCianni, a small business owner, is Krishnamoorthi’s opponent. He is a two-time DuPage County Board member and former Elmhurst mayor.