Orland Park Trustee Jim Dodge is expected to formally announce his candidacy next week for the office of Illinois Comptroller, the seat vacated by 19th Ward Democrat Dan Hynes who is running for Governor against Pat Quinn in the February 2 Democratic Primary.
Hynes' move creates an open race. Dodge, who has strong ties in the Republican Party and years of experience in government, will be able to take advantage of several factors that give him an edge in his run. The major media will be focussed will be on the top three races of U.S. Senate, Illinois Governor and Cook County Board president. With no incumbent in the comptroller's office, it comes down to which candidate will have the best name recognition in second-tier offices.
Dodge has both a great name and strong party backing. And he's going to reach out beyond party lines, noting that the hardships caused by today's economy nationally and Illinois do not distinguish among party affiliation.
Dodge and his wife Linda have two children, Ashley and Jimmy. A technology consultant by profession, Dodge has proven leadership experience in government and community.
He was re-elected last April to his 6th term on the Village of Orland Park Board as a trustee. Orland Park remains one of the state’s leading municipalities.
He has served on the METRA board as a director since 2004. Dodge doesn't talk from two sides of his mouth. He serves on the METRA board and he rides the METRA train from his Orland Park home to his office downtown. Practicing what you preach is a unique qualification in Illinois politics that will help him.
Dodge served as the Orland Township Republican Chairman from 1994 to 1996.
He served as the Cook County Vice-Chairman of the Illinois Young Republicans.
Dodge has a BS Degree in Psychology from DePaul in the Honors Program. He has an MBA in Economics and Finance from the University of Chicago.
A veteran, Dodge served in the Illinois Army National Guard as a Sergeant 178th Infantry Battalion, 44th RAOC, from 1988-1996.
Click to read Dodge's bio?
--Ray Hanania
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