The Chicago Tribune recently published a back-handed editorial page slam of Republican Bob Pritchard in his campaign to continue as our area’s incumbent in the Illinois House of Representatives. Oddly, the traditionally Republican-slanted Trib editorial board, despite endorsing him, warned 70th District voters that “Pritchard can be a bit of a prickly pear.”

Based on an Internet search to determine what exactly the “prickly pear” slam might imply, I gather that the Tribune’s distant savants may be suggesting that Pritchard has gained a reputation in Springfield as being difficult to work with, contentious and possibly even persnickety. Of course, I can’t be certain what the Trib editorialists meant, as I’ve never actually met a walking, talking human prickly pear.

As a non-prickly alternative, I would suggest that voters – especially lifelong Republicans who may vote only along party lines – consider another Bob. That would be Bob Brown, a former long-time colleague of mine at NIU. From personal experience, I know Brown is easy to work with, always cooperative with others and very productive.

Unlike many lawmakers who tend feel they or their party alone have the answers to difficult problems, Brown’s inclusive approach emphasizes rational, open-minded discussion. I know he takes seriously the old saw, “You’ll catch a lot more bees with honey than with vinegar.” That philosophy can be crucial to a lawmaker’s effectiveness when serving in a divided legislature such as ours.

I strongly urge you to vote on Nov. 2 for Bob Brown, who will conscientiously represent all citizens in the 70th District, no matter your traditional party affiliation.

Bob Woggon

DeKalb resident