Democratic Hopefuls Take on State Budget Crisis

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Two Democrats are seeking their party's nomination for the 59th District state House seat in the Feb. 2 primary election. They are incumbent state Rep. Carol Sente of Vernon Hills and Buffalo Grove Village President Elliott Hartstein.

The winner will advance to the November election to face the winner of the Republican primary.

The Daily Herald asked the candidates several questions related to the primary. Here is what the hopefuls had to say when asked about the state budget crisis.

Q. Lay out your plan to solve the state budget crisis. What programs are you prepared to cut for how much in savings? What's your position on taxes? Would you veto any tax increase or are some needed? Be specific. Do you support an expansion of gambling?

Hartstein. I believe any realistic plan to solve the state budget crisis requires a combination of changes, reforms and cuts and some new revenue for the short and long term. …