It is a troubling time in Illinois. We are facing a budget crisis that must be confronted, and we need leaders who can help the state dig its way out of the hole that has been created.

The race between incumbent state Sen. Chris Lauzen, 57, of Aurora, and Sugar Grove Village President Sean Michels, 46, of Sugar Grove, in the Republican primary for the 25th Senate District has more contrasts than many primaries.

Michels is for video gambling; Lauzen is not. Michels if for the Prairie Parkway; Lauzen is not. (Both, however, would like to see Route 47 improved.) Michels is in his third term as village president of Sugar Grove and has never served in state office. Lauzen has been in the state Senate since election to it in 1992.

We are pleased with Michels' stated focus of working with district leaders and bringing more money back into the 25th, but it's a larger-picture time at the moment and we believe Lauzen is the person to help provide larger-picture answers for Illinois.

Lauzen has said his priorities include cutting wasteful government spending and creating an employment climate in Illinois where the private sector can maintain and create jobs paying higher wages. We expect him to keep these priorities.

In the endorsement interview, Lauzen talked extensively about working on pension reform and school funding two of the biggest issues contributing to Illinois' economic woes. He has been a leader on pension reform, and that leadership is needed now more than ever.

Lauzen has proven that he is not afraid to take on the Republican Party leadership when he feels their interests are in contrast to the state's interest. He has been an independent-minded senator, and that's what the Illinois legislature needs.

We endorse Lauzen.