CHICAGO TRIBUNE
Editorial Board
October 13, 2014

The Tribune begins endorsements today for the U.S. House, starting with one of the most closely watched races in the country. Democratic Rep. Brad Schneider, a Deerfield management consultant, wrested the 10th Congressional District seat from Republican Bob Dold, a Kenilworth businessman, in 2012. Dold, who had done impressive work in his single term, was a victim of redistricting: Democratic mapmakers tipped the balance of the 10th by drawing in more Democratic-leaning communities. (They also mapped out Dold’s house.) Obama carried the district by 16 points in 2012 — but Schneider beat Dold by less than 1 percent.

These candidates represent the best their respective parties have to offer. Their debate before the Tribune Editorial Board was spirited and insightful. They largely agree on several issues, including immigration reform, expanded background checks on firearm purchases and some campaign finance reforms. Both support legislation that would require employers who provide group insurance to cover contraception, regardless of their religious beliefs. Though Schneider claims he’s the only real supporter of abortion rights, he’s wrong. Dold has a pro-choice record.

The candidates differ most on how to revive the nation’s economy and put the federal government on solid financial footing. That’s where the edge goes to Dold. When asked how he would reduce the growth in obligations that threaten the solvency of entitlement programs, Schneider talks mostly about what he wouldn’t do. Dold is much more forthright about what will be required to save Social Security and Medicare benefits and reverse the breathtaking rise in federal debt. He also has a keener focus on encouraging private-sector job development.

Dold was one of a handful of House members who voted in 2012 for a gutsy budget reform bill based on recommendations from President Barack Obama’s fiscal commission. Schneider told us he would have voted against it. Schneider promised independence when he ran in 2012, but he has delivered a partisan record. DOLD IS BETTER EQUIPPED TO BREAK THE GRIDLOCK IN CONGRESS AND HAS OUR ENDORSEMENT.

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