Having served on the New Trier Caucus, the Winnetka Caucus, and as Winnetka village trustee and village president, I learned that voters are turned off by misleading rhetoric and negative campaigns.
Our caucus tradition is unique, like the town it has served for so long. It was the idea of Village President Eugene Rummler (1915-1917) and “… the result of the earnest study of many civic-minded citizens.” In “The Story of Winnetka” historian Lora Townsend Dickinson explains that partisan politics with its “accompanying ‘spoils system’ was creeping into village elections,” bringing a “disturbing note into community life …” Hence the caucus plan.
Our caucus tradition is as relevant today as it was 100 years ago. At a time of polarization and divisiveness, it brings together a varied group of residents who endorse candidates from those who choose to submit themselves to the vetting process. One may choose to participate or not. In my opinion, this volunteer, nonpartisan, participatory form of self-government is grassroots democracy at its best, and uniquely situated for a town that prides itself on civic-minded engagement. Now and then, we hear that the caucus is a “dream” or a “disaster” depending on one’s opinion of the endorsements. Regardless, I believe voters are always more interested in decency, honesty and fair play than attacks on a longstanding civic tradition.
Evaluate your trustee candidates. Vote for those you believe will do the best job representing the entire community. It’s the candidates, not the caucus, on the ballot, in 1915 and in 2016.
Jessica Tucker
Winnetka