Ryan Denham / WGLT
Originally published on April 2, 2021 5:24 pm
We’re nearing the end of a local election cycle unlike any other in recent history.
The pandemic has limited the personal contact that’s typically the foundation of Bloomington-Normal city council elections. That’s been partially replaced by a barrage of social media ads and campaign mailers funded by unusually large campaign contributions from outside groups. And candidates themselves are bunching up in larger ideology-driven slates than we’ve seen recently.
The sense among those interviewed by WGLT is that there is simply more at stake.
“It’s fascinating to see how seriously some groups and some individuals are taking this election,” said Joseph Zompetti, an Illinois State University professor and expert in political communication.
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Nick Becker, left, and Patrick Lawler are running for Bloomington City Council in Ward 5, representing the city s near-east side.
Whether and how the Bloomington City Council tackles some of the thorniest social justice issues in the community may hinge on the outcome of the April 6 election.
Depending on the results, up to four new city council members could be sworn in in May. Police funding and reforms, including the Welcoming City immigration ordinance, appear likely to resurface during the next four years, as well as myriad economic inclusivity issues.
Here’s a look at each contested race:
Nick Becker, a vice president for a data services firm, will face high school teacher Patrick Lawler. Ward 5 incumbent Joni Painter is not seeking re-election.
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The candidates running for mayor and city council in Bloomington mostly praise what city government has done so far in providing relief to residents and