ISRA PVF Endorses Judy Baar Topinka for Illinois Governor

9/6/2006 6:00:00 AM

Contact: Richard Pearson of the Illinois State Rifle Association Political Victory Fund, 815-635-3166; Web: http://www.isra-pvf.com

CHICAGO, Sept. 6 /U.S. Newswire/ -- The following was released today by the Illinois State Rifle Association (ISRA) Political Victory Fund (ISRA-PVF):

The board of directors of the ISRA-PVF is pleased to announce the naming of endorsed and preferred candidates running for office in the November general election.

Topping the list of endorsed candidates is Republican gubernatorial hopeful, Judy Baar Topinka along with Joe Birkett, candidate for Lt. Governor.

In the attorney general's race, Tazewell County State's Attorney Stewart Umholtz is endorsed over his Democratic opponent.

Longtime friend of the law-abiding gun owner, Dan Rutherford is endorsed in his bid for secretary of state.

In the Illinois treasurer's race, the ISRA-PVF chose Christine Radogno for endorsement.

Carole Pankau has received the ISRA-PVF endorsement in her campaign for Illinois comptroller.

Turning to key State Senate races, the ISRA-PVF has endorsed John Millner in the 28th District; Deanna Demuzio in the 49th District; John O. Jones in the 54th District; and James Clayborne, Jr. in the 57th District.

In House races, key ISRA-PVF endorsements go to Terry Parke in the 44th District race; Careen Gordon in the 75th District; Aaron Schock in the 92nd District; and Brandon Phelps in the 118th District.

In developing its list of preferred and endorsed candidates, the board of the ISRA-PVF evaluates candidate voting records, public statements, and campaign position papers related to issues important to the state's 1.5 million law-abiding firearm owners. Candidates who hold traditional views on civilian firearm ownership receive preference over those who do not. No preference is stated in races where both candidates are equally strong, or equally weak on the issue of private firearm ownership. Candidates who possess an exceptional voting record and a strong history of standing up for the law-abiding firearm owner are eligible for ISRA-PVF endorsement.

"After much deliberation, the ISRA-PVF board has arrived upon its list of preferred and endorsed candidates," commented ISRA- PVF spokesman Richard Pearson. "On behalf of the board, I'm pleased to announce that, for the first time in quite a while, we are able to deliver a candidate endorsement in each of the constitutional officer races. Likewise, we're very gratified to have delivered approximately 70 endorsements in the General Assembly races. That's a clear indication of the breadth and depth of support that lawful gun owners enjoy in our state legislature."

"Of course, all eyes are on the governor's race," continued Pearson. "In 2006, the choice was easy. On every issue, Rod Blagojevich has proven himself to be bad for the people of Illinois. On issues facing hunters, sportsmen, and other law- abiding gun owners, Blagojevich has been a nightmare. His dismantling of the Department of Natural Resources has endangered the future of our state's outdoor traditions. Blagojevich has made no bones about his support for the Daley gun control packages. Passage of the Daley bills would peal the death knell for private gun ownership in Illinois. Since taking office, Blagojevich has shown nothing but disdain for the state's gun owners. We suspect that gun owners will return the favor on Nov. 7."

"Judy Baar Topinka represents real hope of reforming Illinois' antiquated and discriminatory gun laws," said Pearson. "Judy has been a long time supporter of hunting, the shooting sports, and the individual right of self defense. Unlike Blagojevich, Judy knows the difference between a law-abiding gun owner and a gun- toting criminal. Unlike Blagojevich, Judy values our outdoor traditions and will restore and enrich the stewardship role of the DNR. Unlike Blagojevich, Judy views lawful gun owners as partners in the war on crime and terrorism - not scapegoats for failed social justice policies. Under Judy Topinka, the State Police will return to their role as enforcers of the law rather than enforcers of the Blagojevich/Daley political agenda."

"It is with great pride and hope that the ISRA-PVF gives its endorsement to Judy Baar Topinka."

For a complete listing of ISRA-PVF endorsements and candidate preferences, please visit the ISRA-PVF Internet site at http://www.isra-pvf.com

The ISRA-PVF is a political action committee affiliated with the Illinois State Rifle Association. A copy of our report is available for a fee from the Illinois State Board of Elections, Springfield, Illinois.