Democratic state Rep. Justin Cochran, 39, succeeded longtime Rep. Marty Moylan, whose last-minute decision not to seek reelection cleared the way for Cochran, a member of his district staff. That doesn’t sit well with us.
Republican challenger Joseph Johnson, 44, founded his own consulting business and brings a welcome focus on Illinois’ affordability crisis. He supports reducing unfunded mandates and consolidating local governments where appropriate. He also recognizes the need for structural pension reform.
To his credit, Cochran offers some sensible ideas on legislative ethics and has shown a willingness to work with law enforcement on public safety legislation. But he supports a millionaires tax and told us he opposes a constitutional amendment to address pension costs.
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Johnson would bring a different perspective on taxes, spending and accountability to a legislature dominated by Democrats.
Joseph Johnson is endorsed.
Read all of the Tribune Editorial Board’s endorsements for the 2026 Illinois general election here.
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