03.05.13

Durbin Statement on the Death of Dawn Clark Netsch

Washington, D.C. - U.S. Senator Dick Durbin (D-IL) released the following statement today after learning of the death of Dawn Clark Netsch, former Illinois Comptroller, Illinois State Senator and the first women in Illinois history to win the Democratic nomination for Governor:

 

“More than any other person in our state’s history, Dawn Clark Netsch created the modern era of women in Illinois political leadership. As always, those who open the doors of opportunity must be extraordinarily gifted, determined and patient. Dawn was all of these and more.”

 

“Early in my life I was a lawyer on the State Senate staff and saw firsthand the many talents of Dawn Netsch. Moving effortlessly from the independence of her Lakeshore Liberal base to alliances with her fellow Senator Richard M. Daley, Dawn proved that a politician can be both principled and effective.”

 

“Her ill-fated run for Governor lacked the political polish of many winning campaigns, but her thoughtfulness, candor and blunt honesty about the challenges we faced will be remembered.”

 

“The Illinois political scene will not be the same without that pool-shooting Sox Fan with a cigarette holder but generations of Illinois women can thank the indomitable force of Dawn Clark Netsch for blazing their path.”