Removing Hyde’s name from courthouse an ‘insulting’ act
In 20 years of being deeply involved in DuPage County politics, I have never seen elected officials behave as disrespectfully and unprofessionally as the Democratic members of the DuPage County Board during the recent hearing at which it was decided Henry Hyde’s name should be removed from the county courthouse.
The incredibly insulting idea of canceling the name of the prolific U.S. Rep. Henry Hyde was bad enough. But to cut off public comment on the proposal after just 30 minutes was something none of the many current and former officials in attendance had ever seen before. It was a terrible insult to all of the people who cared deeply about Hyde’s legacy. People came from all over to speak at this hearing. Sadly, the majority of the board did not care to hear them.
While these board members try to paint Hyde as a conservative extremist, Hyde’s legacy is not extreme but very nuanced. Yes, Hyde was pro-life and he sponsored the Hyde Amendment (a bill that Joe Biden and Ted Kennedy also voted for). But he also led on the Brady Bill and the Family Leave Act. Jesse Jackson Jr. gave remarks at Hyde’s memorial service and pointed to Hyde’s ability to work across the aisle. Hyde was very bipartisan in approach, a concept unfortunately lost by politicians today — certainly by the Democratic members of the DuPage County Board.
Hyde’s collaboration and inclusive approach to legislating is sorely missed. We should do our best to remember his name and style, not forget it. Hopefully residents learn about what happened at this hearing. It was evident to all in attendance that the board cared a whole lot more about pandering to political activists than about good government.
DuPage residents deserve better.
Kevin Coyne, Naperville
Chairman, DuPage County GOP
Bansal, Taylor and McDaniel serve Naperville council well
Voters should strongly consider candidates Meghna Bansal, Jennifer Bruzan Taylor and Derek McDaniel for Naperville City Council.
Bansal brings a blend of financial expertise and community involvement, having served as a Naperville Planning and Zoning Commission member and previously as a Wheatland Township Board trustee. Her experience managing budgets and her dedication to public safety will make her an asset to the city.
Taylor offers an impressive legal background and commitment to public safety. As a current council member, she has shown dedication to public service, notably in the areas of public safety and community engagement. Taylor will ensure that Naperville remains a safe and vibrant community.
McDaniel, with his business background and experience on the Planning and Zoning Commission, understands Naperville. His focus on environmental sustainability and economic growth aligns with Naperville’s goals.
Together, Bansal, Taylor and McDaniel represent a balanced approach to governance with a focus on fiscal responsibility, public safety, sustainability and economic development, making them strong candidates for Naperville’s council.
Kenn Miller, Naperville
Is DuPage homeless now tied to Dem’s handling of pandemic?
Is it just a coincidence that, according to the article published Feb. 16 in the Naperville Sun, homelessness in DuPage County increased during the last four years? Isn’t that when the county and nation were under the helm of the Dems, who used fear mongering about the “pandemic” to cause people to isolate themselves and stay away from family, friends, helpers? Just asking.
Bill Voda, Warrenville
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