James McTague for District 1

2008-03-20T14:48:00.000-05:00

Last night the McHenry County Democratic Central Committee had the pleasure of caucusing in several new candidates for the 2008 General Election...

(Former MCDCC Chair) Tom Cynor- Candidate for State's Attorney, Kerry Julian- Candidate for County Auditor, Anita Harmon- Candidate for McHenry County Board District 2, Jill Mawhinney- Candidate for McHenry County Board District 2

Congratulations to all of these outstanding candidates who will definitely strengthen an already strong Democratic ticket in McHenry County.

2008-03-17T12:04:00.001-05:00

Like St. Patrick did in Ireland...we need to drive the snakes from our country. Our snakes are the do nothings in office. On the federal and local levels we have (mostly Republicans) who believe the status quo is just fine, but this just means recession, foreclosures, an unending foreign war, skyrocketing debt, high property taxes, diminishing water, sprawl, and traffic congestion. Enough is enough. There is hope for the future, but only if we throw these bums out. Let's start the change, and use St. Pat as our inspiration. Happy Saint Patrick's Day!!!

2008-03-14T10:06:00.000-05:00

Come and watch Leonardo DiCaprio's new movie The 11th Hour. This environmentally conscious movie is a must see for anyone who is following and concerned about the environmental crisis.

The 11th Hour
March 16th
McHenry Community College Auditorium
5-7pm
$7 at the door

2008-03-06T13:24:00.000-06:00

Congratulations to the new leadership of the McHenry County Democratic Central Committee (Party). I am sure that these new officers will be able to carry on the remarkable change in our County that will help to improve all of our lives and local government.

I would also like to extend a special congratulations to my son Bryan who was re-elected unanimously to the position of district chair for district 1. I know that Bryan's tireless efforts and energy will be able to increase the number of precinct committeemen and help to improve the strength of the Democratic Party in district 1.

I believe that these Party changes will help the Democrats to continue to take advantage of the enormous political alienation many have felt nationally and in McHenry county after years of Republican abuse and neglect.

2008-02-06T16:33:00.000-06:00

Just as we have seen nationwide the county is voting 2:1 in favor for Democrats. This is great...especially since I am the Democratic candidate for the County Board in district 1. Last night I received 4435 votes almost 2000 votes more than we received in the general election in 2006; my Republican counterparts received far less: Lowell Cutsforth (1717), Marc Munaretto (2260), Robert Bless (2153), and Bill Yocius (2147). I believe this tremendous turnout further illustrates the point that everyone in McHenry County wants change. As we have seen on the Federal level of government, the politics as usual have not worked; things have worsened or at best stagnated under the current one party control of the county and the only thing that has changed is the ever increasing amount we pay in property taxes. Thank you for all the support in the primary and let's continue this momentum and excitement into the General Election.

2008-01-07T12:26:00.000-06:00

I just wanted to congratulate Barack Obama on a great victory in Iowa, and to wish him luck tomorrow in New Hampshire. Mr. Obama's success demonstrates that even in the face of overwhelming odds someone with a great message and conviction for change can succeed. This idea needs to also be applied on the local level and our upcoming County Board race...out with the broken old system and in with a new one full of hope and prosperity.

2007-12-20T12:37:00.000-06:00

I just wanted to take a moment and wish everyone a Happy Holidays and let's do great things in the new year.

During this time of year we visit with family/friends and we all generally think more of others than we think of ourselves...a sentiment that we need to keep all in mind all year round.

2007-10-16T13:51:00.001-05:00

We deserve a change!

Dear Neighbor,

My name is James McTague and I am running as a Democrat for the McHenry County Board in District One. Despite 2006 being my first run for elected office I came within nine percentage points of winning a County Board position. Originally I ran because I wanted to take a stand, along with other Democrats, who espouse progressive principles in the county and want to make sure you had a choice of elected officials; I still believe in this cause. The County Board, which collects your property taxes and decides how to spend it, supposedly for our collective benefit, has been dominated by the Republican Party for the last one hundred and fifty years. I heard from many of you during our last campaign about your irritation with the County Board’s lack of responsiveness to your issues including but not limited to conservation, transportation, water shed, land development and many many more.

In 2006 the first Democrat, Jim Kennedy, was elected to the County Board in over thirty years. Now that we have broken the total domination of the Board we still need to build on that success. The only Democrat on the County Board needs our support by increasing our progressive presence. How can a governmental system that does not even have a two party representation be expected to evenly and fairly weigh the concerns of all its citizens? Does the current County Board reflect and represent you? It does not represent me. Then I ask for your support in the coming election cycle.

I know many of you are frustrated with the County’s single party government, and as we have all heard many times before… “all politics is local.” I look forward to taking action to change the imbalance and misdirection of my government both on a federal and local level. How about you? What are you willing to do for you and your family’s future? Together we will create change in our community.

2006-08-02T12:27:00.000-05:00

McHenry County Fair

The McHenry County Fair is...

August 2nd - 6th, 2006
RT 47 & Country Club Rd
(1 mile N of Business Rt 14)
Woodstock, IL 60098

2006-07-31T11:25:00.000-05:00

Success at the Founder's Day Parade

We had a great showing at the Founder's Day Parade- including Dick Auman (16th US Congressional District candidate), Alexi Giannoulias (candidate for State Treasurer), and John Gyplo (my fellow candidate for Mchenry County Board in District 1). I was really impressed to see so many people turn out despite the imense heat. I like to think that this was a sign that people agree with me and belive that we need to show everyone in the county that the abuses of the current Board can not be tollerated. Some belive so intensely in this message that they are willing to sacrifice their health for it...right Mic. I am glad that volunteer Mic Flyn, who suffered heat exhaustion, received imediate help from the other volunteers and has recovered from this serious situation. Mic's example does bring up an important point. With the high heat this summer remember to stay inside whenever possible and drink plenty of water and other fluids.

2006-07-26T14:43:00.000-05:00

Congratulations to the citizens of Barrington Hills in their unanimous victory over the actions of Texas developer Fritz Duda, and his intended deannexation of 368 acres and development of this land into 371 homes at Spring Creek and Haegers Bend roads.

This is a demonstration that concerned citizens can make a difference. However, the problems of the county do not end here. While the County Board's decision in this matter is a step in the right direction it is still too little too late for the region. We in the community deserve a change. The County Board should naturally be in concert with the constituency not forced to be that way once in a blue moon.

2006-07-25T01:16:00.000-05:00

50 Democrats Marched in the McHenry Fiesta Days Parade Sunday – and had a Blast!

We can do even better for Algonquin and Lake in the Hills:

ALGONQUIN FOUNDERS DAY PARADE 2006: “Just Havin’ Fun”

WHERE : Staging Area along SCOTT STREET & Eastgate http://www.mapquest.com/maps/

WHEN : July 29, 2006 (Saturday) - Line up at 10:30 a.m. Entry Number 93 (Float to be there at 9:00)

MARCHERS : 50 Democratic Party Members Marching In Unison – Bring Your Friends and Family – It’s Fun –

GEAR: Wear Your Democratic Shirts, bring Sunscreen and a Water Bottle

CONTACT : Mic Flynn – District 1 County Board Chair at 773-259-1992
(Mic can tell you which streets will be closed to traffic)

BE ONE OF 50 DEMOCRATIC PARTY MARCHERS IN ALGONQUIN ON SATURDAY, JULY 29, 2006

If you plan to attend, please say so on the "Democratic Reunion" section at www.democrats.org We have made our parade participation one of the events for this grassroots initiative by the Democratic Party. It's called "Blues on Parade." Let's let everyone checking out these events what a great group we have. More Dems may let us know they want to join us!

2006-07-25T00:54:00.000-05:00

The actions of Texas developer Fritz Duda, the deannexation of 368 acres and his intent of developing this land into 371 homes at Spring Creek and Haegers Bend roads are appalling. Duda’s actions present a health, environment, financial, and overall way-of-life threats to the other residents of Barrington Hills and the rest of the county at large.

While there is nothing illegal about this matter (except that Mr. Duda’s actions will violate Illinois law and disturb the habitat of the redwing blackbird population- as identified by young Erin Ford at the June 29th hearing) and no one believes that Mr. Duda is not entitled to earn a profit from his holdings these actions are selfish and reflect an ill character. Every other resident of Barrington Hills has respected the 5-acre zoning approved in the area, which was in existence when Mr. Duda purchased his property. However, Mr. Duda feels that he is entitled to independently ignore this legislation and the well being of those who already live in the area.

At present the County Board has jurisdiction over this issue, however, they appears to be accommodating Mr. Duda and once again neglecting the demands and wishes of its larger constituency- a systemic problem of the one-party system in McHenry County. By siding with Duda the County Board sets a precedent that zoning law is unnecessary, as long as you are privately funded enough to circumvent it. We deserve a change!

The County Board will, hear argument and decide this issue on July 25, 2006 at the County Administration Building, 667 Ware Road Woodstock; speakers against the matter must arrive at 8:45am the zoning board will meet at 9:30 a.m.

2006-07-04T00:06:00.000-05:00

Happy 4th of July!

When American patriots, like John Hancock, signed their names and adopted the Declaration of Independence in 1776 they began a political tradition that continues to this day; where individual citizens are capable of correcting the wrongs of government with rebellion- sometimes violent but commonly in the form of voting. It is this tradition that has and continues to make America great. So remember on November 7th to be a rebellious voter, in the American tradition, and break the one-party strangle hold on our community. Let's make government responsive to our community again. But for now, have a safe and happy 4th of July!

2006-06-30T03:06:00.001-05:00

Crystal Lake Gala Parade- July 2, 2006

As Friends of James McTague for McHenry County Board District 1 you are invited to join us in this community event.

Marchers and other interested parties:

For those pulling/assembling the float plan to arrive between 10:00 am and 11:00 am. Use the west driveway.Our Unit Number is 82.2. We will assemble in the former Suntronics Building (110 Woodstock Ave.).

The actual parade will begin at 1:00 pm. The route begins at the Municipal Building at the corner of Woodstock St. and Dole Ave. The parade ends at the South Elementary School (601 Golf Road).

Parking:

Parking will be very limited. Woodstock Ave. will be closed. Some parking will be available at the commuter railroad parking lot on Woodstock Ave. At the end of the parade (South Elementary), parking is allowed on the East Side of the building.

I would refrain from wearing anything that might be offensive to some in the crowd (e.g., anti-Bush). We want to promote our party and candidates in the best possible light.

2006-06-20T13:58:00.000-05:00

Festival, Fundraising, and Father's Day

On Saturday June 10th the McTague Team had an awesome time braving the questionable weather at the Algonquin Hill Climb Festival (visit the website- www.jamesmctague4district1.com- for pictures). This local event honors the automotive gumption of a far gone era in a very fun and colorful way as racers speed to the top of a hill in vintage cars. It was great meeting with other citizens and exchanging our thoughts how we need to improve our community. As I've stated myself and am looking to change, many of you expressed anger at the lack of choice in our elected community leadership- there is a large population of Independents and closet Democrats who are being alienated, a continued increase in the traffic congestion- even though large sums of your money has been spent researching this issue there is still a failure to act, the shrinking water table (due to rapid uncontrolled/ unplanned growth) and the potential for contamination to our remaining water, and the need for improved safety- the county board has known for some time about the need to upgrade a regional animal shelter and has chosen like most things to do nothing. Time and time again the county board has failed to recognize that our community is growing. Also, as these complaints- and federal problems- demonstrate single party control over all branches of government breeds incompetence, impedes action, corrupts, and distances government from the people. This makes democracy unhealthy and eventually non-existent.

On Saturday June 17th I had the privilege of being one of many who attended the 1st annual McHenry County Democratic Jeffersonian Dinner. It was wonderful seeing Herb Franks and Bob Gibson receive recognition for their life long dedication to the community, and listening to Illinois leaders like...

Congresswoman Melissa Bean
Attorney General Lisa Madigan
and State Representative Jack Franks

In addition, I had the pleasure of speaking with Algonquin and Barrington Hills Village Board Presidents John Schmitt and Robert Abboud who also attended the event. Most importantly, I was impressed to see how many in our community believe in democracy and that the oligarchical rule in the area must end.

Finally, I hope everyone had an enjoyable Father's Day; even those who were unable to be with their loved ones- because of war or other distances.

2006-06-03T15:08:00.000-05:00

Hello from campaign headquarters-

I hope you all had an enjoyable holiday and thanked a veteran or active duty person for their defense of our freedoms. Speaking of freedom and the democratic process, my fellow democrats and I are continuing to ensure your freedom of choice here in McHenry County. We are hoping to develop a more representative government for the citizenry. From speaking with fellow constituents I am constantly informed of how glad people are that we could have alternate representation with new progressive democratic views. Many had fallen under the mistaken sense that there is no other alternative but to accept what the traditional republican party hands them here in McHenry County. They have felt isolated, frustrated and disenfranchised. That their opinion did not matter. Well, it matters very much. We need your voice and your views on how you wish your local goverment to address your local issues.

I pay significant amount of money in property taxes. Are the republican district board members using it in as fiscally a responsible manner as possible. As my county grows in population are the county board members planning for balanced growth with an eye to developing economic support for future needs?

The safety of our families and property continues to be an issue in our communities. We all know someone who has needed the services of our area fire department and police. Thanks to their dedication we enjoy relative safety and security. Yet, they are continually underfunded while demand grows. Many communities have to depend on the committment and self sacrifice of volunteers. Tell me what you think.

How are they going to ensure my child gets the best education possible? Are the teachers, who work very hard to provide your child's education, getting the best support and recognition possible? How is it that we have three no kill dog shelters but not one single operational womens' shelter? We definitely need effective animal control. But, what about our needs for a family support services and domestic challenges that face people we know and love?

Why has the county goverment been spending money year after year on transportation studies since 1940 but not implemented one of them. Our communities are growing but there is no plan for growth. Soon we will not have the option to choose after developers have taken up the available land sites.

Why is it that a current county board member can draw a paycheck for her post at the county level and a paycheck as a secretary at her job at the local township office. It would seem like double dipping on your tax dollar not to mention an appearance of a conflict of interest. How would she protect your tax dollar if Township and County issues conflicted? I am just asking. What are your questions. Let me know. Let your friends know about my website.But most of all vote. If you are not registered then register. If you do not know where visit my website jamesmctague4ditrict1.com to find out. Or, contact me and I will personally register you as a voter. Take care and have fun this summer. And again thank a 1st responder, veteran and/or active duty person for the safety and security you enjoy.

We need a change! We have a choice! Let me hear your thoughts ideas and needs. You have a voice and I invite you to express it here.

2006-05-21T21:44:00.000-05:00

Hi all-

My name is James McTague, and I have been selected to represent the Democratic Party in the McHenry County District 1 County Board race. As a concerned citizen I decided that I was sick and tired of seeing (Republican) candidates consistently running uncontested on the election ballots in McHenry County. Choice is necessary for a functioning democracy. Hopefully by expanding our choice we will be able to confront various problems in our community such as transportation gridlock, re-establishing greater ethics in our elected officials, and curtailing our skyrocketing property taxes. At this time I would like to hear from the other constitutes in District 1. What are your concerns? Let your voice be heard...

Ph: (847) 639-0061
Email: docmct@gmail.com
Website: jamesmctague4district1.com

We are also looking for donations and volunteers. Help me earn your vote.