Progress Illinois

Bob Abboud, Democratic candidate in the 16th Congressional District, is getting support from some unlikely places. Last week, Major Gen. John Borling, a member of John McCain's national finance committee and an elected Republican delegate from Illinois, endorsed Abboud at a meeting of union members, elected officials, and constituents.

Here's what Borling had to say (taken from an Abboud press release):

With gas prices out of control, the economy weak, unemployment a problem—especially in Northern Illinois-- crushing national debt and skyrocketing health care costs, the 16th District and America need new, visionary leadership. I have endorsed Bob because he has extraordinary judgment and an intelligence that we desperately need in Congress. He is the right man for the job, I support his candidacy because its time for a change in Illinois. [...]

We need to have political representatives who honor their word, display good judgment, and are smart enough to identify and help solve the pressing problems of Northern Illinois and the nation. The nation suffers from career politicians who believe they are owed lifetime appointment ... Approval ratings of the Congress hover around 13 percent and we need to turn the affairs of government back over to citizen servants who will truly earn our respect and approval through effective bi-partisan action. Bob Abboud is that kind of man.

Borling is a decorated Vietnam war veteran who spent time as a POW with John McCain. His endorsement is significant not only because he is a Republican, but also because it shows how important economic issues are in the 16th District race. While Borling disagrees with Abboud's stance against the Iraq occupation, his statement clearly indicates that he trusts the Democrat over Republican incumbent Don Manzullo to solve the region's economic downturn.