Author: John Laesch

The Greater Chicago Caucus has endorsed John Laesch, Democratic candidate for Congress in Illinois 14th district.

The Greater Chicago Caucus is committed to bringing together “like minded people of conscience who will work for the advancement and protection of human and civil rights, promote debate on public policy issues and work to support or elect officials that reflect the core values of this Caucus.”

The Greater Chicago Caucus has been interviewing and studying candidates since September. Candidates were evaluated on their positions on the issues of: civil liberties, comprehensive immigration reform, economic justice, environment, health care, education, middle east foreign policy and preemptive war.

John stated, “I am proud to be endorsed by an organization dedicated to peace and justice issues. I respect the diverse number of voices represented in the Caucus. I share their goal of leaving a better world to the next generations.”

Candidates who have the courage to stand up for true universal health care are few and far between, even as the number of health care tragedies in our country rises.

But John Laesch is no ordinary candidate, and health care is too critical an issue.

Last night in Elgin, Dr. Quentin Young, Illinois Sen. Mike Noland (D-22) and John Laesch spoke at an early evening forum hosted by the campaign.

Dr. Young, a tireless fighter for health care parity and justice, spoke of his history as a universal health care advocate, and the importance of our election.

John offered a detailed power point presentation exploring some of the questions concerning single payer health care and explaining some of the finer points.

Sen. Noland brought the crowd up to speed on developments in Springfield, and true to his grass roots, spoke of the challenges candidates face when opposed by big money.

The crowd consisted of many health care professionals, leading to an informative conversation with many differing perspectives. Quite a few of the people attending offered their own stories and problems with our current system, and all justify with a greater understanding and appreciation of a single payer health care solution.

John Laesch, Democrat for Congress in Illinois 14th Congressional District, received several new endorsements over the holidays:

– UAW, United Auto Workers, Region 4, encompassing nine north central states.
– VETPAC, the Veterans Alliance for Security and Democracy, working with veterans and their families to mobilize voters and support candidates they feel will protect the security and enhance the democratic process in the United States.
– IVI-IPO, the Independent Voters of Illinois, Independent Precinct Organization,
a statewide multi-issue, multi-partisan, independent political organization that has been an advocate for honest open government since 1944.

“Our momentum continues to build as we head into the final stretch of the campaign. This next round of endorsements is the perfect way to kick off the New Year,” said Laesch. “I am thrilled to have the support of working Americans and Veterans who want to see real change through progress-oriented policies.”

Laesch also received the personal endorsements of:
– Studs Terkel, best-selling author, TV and radio personality, and social historian
– Dr. Quentin Young, medical correspondent for WBEZ, professor at University of Illinois Medical School, and former chairman of medicine at Cook County Hospital, now Stroger Hospital.