Editors note 12/9/21

The Republican Party in Illinois needs to be taken seriously, because in the land of Lincoln Republicans know deep down they have to steer their party away from the ridiculous Donald Trump. That's what party leaders mean when they call for "moderation" in their platforms and candidates, but that's too boring to take them far. "Backbone," however, could be a winning strategy. If Rodney Davis wants to be somebody in politics, he should invite U.S. Rep. Mary Miller, the right-winger who lost her seat in redistricting, to campaign against him in next year's primary. Davis, already known for decency, could show conservatives that Republicans stand for anti-racism too, for sensible public health measures like vaccines and for reasonable gun laws, and for respect for women. A solid primary win could show other Republicans a way out of the wilderness. – Fletcher Farrar, editor