Democratic state Rep. Rick Ryan, 60, was first elected to represent this Southwest Side and south suburban district in 2024. The moderate Democrat is now seeking his second term, squaring off against Republican David Sheppard.
Sheppard, 56, grew up in public housing on Chicago’s South Side, raised by a single mother. He went on to spend 28 years in law enforcement, eventually becoming chief of the Robbins Police Department. We were impressed by many of Sheppard’s positions.
He opposes new taxes and is rightly concerned about electronic monitoring, telling us that “electronic monitoring should not become a substitute for detention when a defendant presents a serious threat to the community, and violations of monitoring conditions must bring swift and meaningful consequences.” We’ve argued much the same before.
Incumbent Ryan shares that concern, telling us that “allowing those on electronic monitoring to have two days of non-home confinement is outrageous.” He also opposes a millionaire’s tax, saying it would drive away business.
There’s a lot to like about both candidates. We’ve endorsed Ryan in the past and believe him to be a good representative. But Sheppard brings much valuable experience to the table, and Springfield is in need of political balance. Adding a solid Republican representative in this district would help along those lines.
David Sheppard is endorsed.
Read all of the Tribune Editorial Board’s endorsements for the 2026 Illinois general election here.
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