Rock Island Today

The online Dispatch-Argus newspaper today officially endorsed Brandi McGuire, Republican candidate for the 72nd District state House seat, after comparing her assertive platform to that of her opponent and awarding McGuire points for her continued “uphill battle.”

Identifying McGuire as a “quintessential outsider,” the newspaper went on to profile McGuire as the candidate who “launched a nonprofit to help other families,” adding that “she’s no fan of business-as-usual in Springfield.”

Conversely, the publication characterized McGuire's opponent, Democrat Mike Halpin, as new to voters, but no outsider. The 72nd District has long been served by state Rep. Pat Verschoore (D-Milan), rendering the election as more of a challenge for the Republican contender than the Democrat.

Although Halpin said he would bring an independent mindset, he has not gone on record with any substantial reform ideas other than redistricting reform, which was defeated earlier this year and remains off November’s ballot.

After weighing the qualities of both candidates, the Dispatch-Argus said it prefers “a major course correction” with “effective new voices,” including McGuire's.

“I am proud to receive the endorsement of my home newspaper right here in the heart of District 72,” McGuire said. “The Dispatch-Argus knows the state is in a crisis of historical proportions, a new voice, direction and solutions are needed. The people have that voice with their votes."

McGuire was born in Silvis. She, her husband and their four children have lived in Milan for 20 years.