Rock Island Today

Brandi McGuire, Republican candidate for the District 72 state House race, is picking up more support ahead of Tuesday's election.

In a third round of endorsements recently, the Chicago Tribune endorsed McGuire for voters wanting change in Springfield.

“Based on the money being spent, it's clear Democrats are focused on this seat. ... Democrat Michael Halpin, an attorney from Rock Island, is running on a status quo, Democratic-talking-points platform: Rauner, bad; Democrats, good,” the endorsement said.

Brandi McGuire | Contributed photo

McGuire are facing off for the state House seat occupied by state Rep. Pat Verschoore (D-Milan). At 72 years old, Verschoore, who was first appointed to represent the 72nd District in March 2003, will retire at the end of this term.

In addition to the Tribune, the Illinois Federation for Right to Life Political Action Committee (IFRL-PAC) endorsed McGuire recently as well. The federation is a statewide pro-life organization with local affiliates throughout the state. Made up of people from different political, faith and social backgrounds, the IFRL works to end abortion and protect other vulnerable groups, including the disabled and the elderly.

“The protection of the lives of conceived, but yet unborn children of Illinois and the nation, is the foundation upon which we build all other rights,” the IFRL-PAC said in a press release. “Brandi McGuire has worked to protect the right to life in the State of Illinois for many years. The federation is excited to endorse a candidate of such integrity and steadfast commitment to the cause of life. We know that Mrs. McGuire will be a champion for life in Springfield.”

To McGuire, this endorsement was meaningful on a personal level, campaign spokesman Adrian Madunic told Rock Island Today.

“The IFRL is important to Brandi because it matches her faith beliefs, which are important to her as a person. This endorsement shows the voters more about her personally,” Madunic said.

In a press release, McGuire said she is “proud” of the Tribune’s endorsement because of its history and reputation.

“The Chicago Tribune is one of the most respected newspapers in the state and has a rigorous questionnaire,” Madunic said.

The Tribune went on to say that McGuire, a small-business manager who successfully fought school administrators when they wouldn’t allow her daughter’s service dog to accompany her in class, is running on a pro-business platform “to jumpstart the economy.”

“Voters: If you like what you're getting from Springfield, vote for Halpin. If you want change, vote for McGuire,” the endorsement said.