Gutzmer on Hot Issues

Hernando Zavala asked me to share the following exchange with Peter Gutzmer, Democratic Candidate for Illinois Senate 27th district:

I have been asked to help support your candidacy. I believe that every elected office in state government can act as a stepping stone to a higher elected office at the federal level. Since we are wholly responsible for the people we place in office and bear the consequences of their actions while in office, I strongly believe a critical analysis of a candidate's stance on the issues is in order.

If you would have my help and support, I ask for your stance on the following two issues. I know time is critical when running for office so I will not expect anything more than brief replies. I looked for these two topics on your website but they were not addressed.

• What is your stance on abortion? (i.e. At what point do you believe life begins?)
• What is your stance on gun control? (i.e. Are there any restrictions which you would repeal? Any restrictions which you would support? Assault weapons?)

I know these are "hot button" issues but your responses (or your silence) on these two issues will tell me everything I need to know about you. Please take your time in answering.

Candidate Gutzmer's reply:

Thank you for contacting me, I find it truly encouraging to see people engaged in the political process because your right, voters are essentially responsibly for those whom they elect.

My position on Abortion is as follows: I am not for abortions, any woman or couple who must go through that moral tragedy is a shame. As to when life begins, I believe that is a question for each of us to address personally via our faith and belief structure. Because of this I want to do two things. The first is abortion should always be legal, its illegality pushes a dangerous medical procedure into the shadows and I believe that could be catastrophic to the reproductive health of all women. The second involves an effort to always reduce the number abortions performed each year. I believe that through comprehensive sex education and the interest of engaged parents, we can arm our children with the knowledge of the responsibilities and consequences that come along with having sex. This is an issue that touches people in the most deep of personal places, but that must not stop us from confronting these issues from a rational perspective, one that will allow us to progress rather than regress.

My position on gun control is as follows: I am a gun owner, I own a handgun, a rifle, and a shotgun. As a sportsman I am more than willing to jump through any hoops conceivable when purchasing or using my firearms to ensure these weapons do not fall into the wrong hands. I do believe that every law-abiding citizen has the right to own a firearm. I was also glad that you asked about assault weapons. I find no earthly reason why an average citizen would have a need for weapons specifically designed for military use, I do support an assault weapons ban. Furthermore I do think there is more we can do to track and monitor the sale of firearms in Illinois, and all that can be done to keep our children safe from domestic accidents should be done.

Again I thank you for your engagement. The one promise I can make to all the people of the 27th district is that I am here to listen and will always work for them. My only interest is their interest and what is best for the state of Illinois.