Rep. Charlie Meier (R-Okawville) & Madison County Board's Don Moore
CHICAGO – The GOP primary race in the 108th House District between incumbent State Rep. Charlie Meier (R-Highland) and challenger Madison County Board member Don Moore drew attention last week when the Belleville News Democrat questioned the government funding each candidate receives – one based on the federal government's farming subsidies and the other due to military veteran benefits.
For Illinois Family Action, a sister organization to Illinois Family Institute, how willing the candidates are to stand with social conservative gubernatorial primary challenger Jeanne Ives determined their pick in the race.
"These were two guys good on the issues Illinois Family Action is interested in, we looked at their willingness to repudiate Governor Rauner," IFA's executive director David E. Smith told Illinois Review Monday.
Smith said during a session with fellow conservative leaders earlier this year, the answers candidates gave when the panel asked primary candidates,"Are you willing to endorse Jeanne Ives?" determined their final endorsement.
That was the case with IFA's endorsement of military veteran Don Moore.
"Rep. Meier was hesitant to separate himself from the governor, and Don Moore was willing to stand with Jeanne Ives," Smith said.
Meier supported the controversial 32 percent state income tax hike last session, and stood to defend his vote on the House floor. For that vote, Meier was targeted by the Liberty Principles PAC, which is supporting Moore's challenge.
Faith and family are important to Moore, he said in a statement released Monday.
“I’m running for office to bring our conservative values and principles to state government,” said Moore. “When I look at Springfield, it is difficult to find these values being exercised. Our families here in District 108 deserve better leadership.”
A retired Marine, a devoted husband and father of three daughters, and a member of the Madison County Board, Moore said he is ready to take his values to Springfield to represent the people of District 108, and families all across the state.
“We need Don Moore because as a retired Marine major, he will stand up to the Chicago Democrats and surrender Republicans who are jamming their values down our throats,” Smith said.
“Don Moore is pro-life and he has fought to protect faith and freedom. As a veteran, I know he has the courage to do what is right, even when it’s difficult.”
