DeKALB | Judy Baar-Topinka made history in 1994 when she was the first woman elected Illinois Treasurer.

After three consecutive terms as treasurer, Topinka is attempting to become the state’s first female governor. Democrat Dawn Clark Netsch in 1994 was the only other woman to run for governor in Illinois history.

“She’s the first woman nominated to run for governor by the Republican party,” said Topinka’s press secretary John McGovern. “She’s helped pave the way for the next generation of women.”

One politician thinks her gender will not be a factor.

“I think Topinka will be considered on her own merits, not whether she’s a man or a woman,” said Rep. Patricia Reid Lindner (R-Sugar Grove).

Topinka’s slogan is “Common Sense. Straight Talk. Hard Work.” Her campaign focuses include education, economy and ethics reform.

“I think people are hopefully past the point where they would determine whether or not to vote for her based on the fact that she’s a woman,” Lindner said.

Others disagree, such as sophomore finance major Dan Flores.

“I think it’s going to be pretty sexist because women will vote for her just because she’s a woman,” Flores said.

NIU associate political science professor Barbara Burrell disagreed.

“I often think that being a woman generally does affect the race, but I haven’t noticed anything that says it will in this election,” Burrell said.

If elected, she added, Topinka could attract other women to run for office in Illinois.

“If she got elected she would certainly be a role model for young girls,” Burrell said, “instead of when you look at politics now and see a bunch of white men in suits.”

Lori Andel, a sophomore elementary education major, agreed. “Her running will hopefully open up the political field for more women to run for higher positions,” Andel said.

Caitlin Mullen is a City Reporter for the Northern Star.