Obama's successor Raoul seeks full State Senate term
 

By William S. Bike

Appointed by Democratic Committeemen to fill the South Loop-Bronzeville 13th District State Senate seat formerly held by U.S. Senator Barack Obama, Democrat Kwame Raoul hopes to be elected to a full term. Republican and fellow Hyde Parker Charles Kinzer would like to stop him.

Kwame Raoul earned his bachelor's degree in political science from DePaul University and his law degree from the Chicago-Kent College of Law. As a Cook County prosecutor, he represented the interests of abused and neglected children and crime victims. Later, in his private practice, he represented many low-income clients in everything from civil rights and education to employment and public benefits. In his most recent position before becoming a Senator, he served as chief internal negotiator for the City Colleges of Chicago in labor/management relations. 

"As a lifelong resident of Chicago, I am honored to be able to serve as the State Senator of this most unique legislative district, one that is rich with academic and cultural institutions," Raoul said. "The traditions and values of the residents within this district have produced a proud legacy of independent, progressive leaders."

His top issues are education, healthcare, public safety, consumer protection, senior citizens, and economic development. Raoul has sponsored legislation to expand pre-school programs, stimulate community-based healthcare projects, reintegrate ex-offenders into the community, prevent identity theft, and make it easier for seniors to obtain prescription drugs. He also has fought for legislation to regulate gun shows, protect minority contractors, increase airport safety, and prevent violent video games from being sold to minors.

His committee assignments are Pensions and Investments (Vice-Chair), the Committee on the Whole, Commerce and Economic Development, Health and Human Services, Higher Education, and the Judiciary.

Republican Charles Kinzer lives in the 1100 block of E 56th Street and was unavailable for comment.