Democratic state representative candidate Bob Brown is hitting the streets of DeKalb to promote his campaign.

Brown is campaigning for the position of Illinois 70th District State Representative. He has been appearing at local events several times a day for much of September.

Brown helped Senator Dick Durbin lead a Democratic rally on Saturday in NIU’s Central Park during U.S. Vice President Dick Cheney’s visit to the Convocation Center.

He said speaking to NIU clubs and organizations is a key element to his success in November.

“I’ve already spoken to the College Democrats and I would like to reconnect with them [before the election]. I’ve also spoken with the Black Student Association. We need to energize the students during this fall campaign,” Brown said.

One of Brown’s key goals is to reform how education is funded, specifically by reducing the rate of property tax increases.

“We need to seek funding for Northern from the state legislature. We need to bring those dollars back because we cannot rely solely on property tax to fund schools,” Brown said.

On Friday night, Brown was at The House, 263 E. Lincoln Highway, as part of a campaign fundraiser.

“[Campaigning] is really a lot of fun. I grew up in the area, so I’m getting to see a lot of friends and people that I’ve known while I’m out campaigning,” Brown said.

Many Brown supporters stopped by throughout the night to say “hello” and to wish him luck on Election Day. Some brought flowers to the fundraiser while others showed up with balloons.

“I met him at lunch today and just started talking with him, said Deborah Robertson, associate professor of theater and dance at NIU. “I am just thrilled at anyone who wants to challenge the Republican nature of this district.”

Brown said talking to local residents like Robertson and is fundamental to campaigning.

“I knew that I wanted to visit as many people as I could during this campaign. I want to listen to their ideas and I want to be able to include their thinking in [governmental] processes. That’s what a state representative’s job is,” Brown said.

Look in Wednesday’s Star for a glimpse inside Republican state representative candidate Bob Pritchard’s campaign.

Bob Brown’s key issues:

1. Reform how education is funded

2. Manage the health care crisis

3. Improve the district’s employment picture

4. Preserve quality of life

5. Assist those with special or temporary needs

Source: www.brownforillinois.com