EIGHTH CIRCUIT RACE ETHICS DISPUTE

QUINCY — Ethics concerns have resurfaced in the race for the at-large judge seat in the Eighth Judicial Circuit of Illinois as early voting continues ahead of the March 17 election.

The issue was raised again following a February 12 debate hosted by the League of Women Voters and a February 26 statement released by the campaign of Assistant Adams County State’s Attorney Tim Bass regarding findings by the Illinois State Board of Elections involving the campaign committee Citizens for Judge Chris Pratt.

According to the Board of Elections, a complaint filed January 25 resulted in a finding that Pratt’s campaign committed improper financial reporting related to a late filing. The board’s order was published February 23. Pratt acknowledged the late filing but said the violation was not willful. Under state law, late filings can result in fines, and Pratt said he will pay the imposed fine.

Bass said a violation of the law is still a violation and emphasized that candidates seeking judicial office should follow campaign rules closely. In a statement, Bass said he was pleased the rules were enforced and reiterated that he has followed campaign requirements during his run.

The Bass campaign also referenced an ethics allegation not under the Board of Elections’ jurisdiction that could potentially be reviewed by the Judicial Inquiry Board. Bass has previously accused Pratt of improperly using his office during the campaign, including statements related to a judicial advisory poll.

Pratt responded by noting the release originated from his opponent’s campaign, not a state authority. He said he has complied with the Board of Elections process and described the late filing as a common violation addressed through a statutory fine. Pratt added that he was unaware of any additional allegations related to the Judicial Inquiry Board and could not comment further.

The at-large judicial race remains on the March 17 ballot, with early voting underway across the circuit.

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