Newly formed party seeks candidate for 10th District State Representative

In an effort to circumvent Derrick Smith's refusal to step-down as the Democratic candidate for the 10th District State Representative slot on the fall ballot, 10th District Democratic Ward Committeemen have united to form a new party. This new party is seeking individuals interested in being their nominee.

Called the “10th District Unity Party,” the newly formed group is encouraging interested and qualified people to quickly take steps to be considered. First potential nominees must download and fill out a detailed questionnaire, which includes an essay outlining their legislative goals and other objectives for the office. Then they must complete the Statement of Economic Interest form. 

The completed questionnaire and economic interest form must be faxed to 312.368.4944 by noon on Fri., May 18. In addition, the applicants must attend an interview session to be held on Tues., May 22 at the Painters Council Dist. 14 union hall, 1645 W. Adams. The interviews begin at 9 a.m.

Deciding that action must be taken, Democratic Ward Committeemen in the 10th District consulted with legal council to determine what actions they could take. They were told that they had two options, to replace him or to form a new party.

The replacement process would require finding a nominee who had not voted in the Primary then getting 1,500 valid signatures collected by persons who had not circulated petitions for any other candidate in the Primary. Realizing that that was too big a challenge, they chose to create a new party which could not have the word "Democrat" in it.

Knowing the importance of having a united front, the aldermen, with Jesse White as the Chair, are working together to properly vet a qualified person to serve in this important State position. The aldermen in the district which runs from Lincoln Park on the east, and moves west including parts of Wicker Park and the West Side, are Proco "Joe" Moreno, 1st Ward; Bob Fioretti, 2nd Ward; Michael Chandler, 24th Ward; Roberto Maldonado, 26th Ward; Jesse White, 27th Ward; Jason Ervin, 28th Ward; Scott Waguespack, 32nd Ward; Emma Mitts, 37th Ward; and Michele Smith, 43rd Ward.

“It is unfortunate that we have to do this, but the alternative is unacceptable,” said White. “We look forward to selecting a candidate with solid credentials and integrity.”

Because there are only two parties in Illinois, the newly formed party would be disbanded in November and if their candidate is elected, that person will have to declare as a Democrat or Republican.