Posted by admin on September 29, 2009 · Leave a Comment
Palatine Republican To Take On Bassi For State House
By RICHARD MAYER Assistant Managing Editor
Palatine resident Tom Morrison is officially throwing his hat into the ring in hopes of dethroning current State Rep. Suzie Bassi (54th), who has served six consecutive terms in the Illinois House.
A resident of Palatine for the past six years, Morrison, 34, is running as a Republican. He said he decided to run this past summer at the urging of others when his business began to grow.
“I face disasters everyday—and Illinois state government is a disaster,” said Morrison. “Some complain about state government, but say it’s ‘the best we can do.’ I’m not willing to accept that answer. Illinois doesn’t have to be this way. Illinois can do better, that’s why I’m running for state representative.”
Morrison is a local ServPro owner, a company that specializes in disaster cleanup and restoration, meaning his company comes in after a fire department leaves and cleans up destruction caused by a fire, smoke and water damage.
Morrison opposes raising taxes to solve Illinois’ financial difficulties, and stressed a renewed approach to limited government.
Citing his six-year teaching background, Morrison said, “Education shapes our children’s lives, and should never be compromised.”
He also said from a business background, he is aware of the importance of controlling expenses, providing valuable service and creating jobs.
“Our economic performance is ranked 48th in the nation, and locally we face some of the highest taxes,” said Morrison. “When the rest of the nation was prospering, our state stagnated in these bad times, however, Illinois does lead— we are just leading the wrong ways.”
Morrison went on to give examples such as Illinois coming in higher for unemployment than the national average of 10.5%; corruption with the issues former Gov. Rod Blagojevich is facing, and higher taxes.
“I’ve worked as a local teacher for six years,” said Morrison. “Education shapes our children’s lives, and should never be compromised. If we are going to supply the skilled workers for today’s jobs and a better economy, we need to give all parents more control over the education of their children.”
As a business owner, Morrison said he understands what is needed for a strong economy.
“In the last four years, we’ve grown our business and expanded our staff,” he said. “I know how hard it can be and difficult to meet payroll at times, but I also know how to control expenses, continue to provide a valuable service, and stay competitive.”
Morrison said over the next five months, he plans to run a “spirited” campaign against Bassi, also a Republican.
“We may disagree about the issues of government spending and the sanctity of life, but after 10 years in office, as a senior legislator, she has not shown the leadership we need to change Illinois,” said Morrison…(read full)
