Video: Republican Candidates in 18th Senate and 35th House Districts Have Their Say

With the March 20 primaries just weeks away, candidates are traveling across Illinois' oddly shaped districts to get out their message. 

On Monday night, both Democrats and Republicans vying for the empty seats of the and State Senate 18th appeared at a candidate's forum sponsored by the Palos-Orland League of Women Voters at the .  

Topics of discussion ranged from spending cuts and tax reform, to gambling and gay marriage.

Over the next several days Patch will bring you highlights from the event. First up are the GOP candidates. Steven Williams is running unopposed for the Republican nomination in the 35th district. At the forum he stressed the philosophical differences the two parties have on spending cuts and tax reform.

Battling it out for the nomination are Republicans Barbara Bellar and Ricardo Fernandez. Bellar did not attend the forum. A supporter read an opening statement on her behalf that highlighted the candidate's conservative ideals and wide-ranging professional career.

Her opponent  said he was inspired to enter the race after the state legislature passed a number of tax increases. He vowed to fight back against higher taxes.

Watch the closing statements from Fernandez and Williams and check back with Patch for more forum coverage.   

Keep updated on election news and read full candidate profiles: 

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