Josh Watson Earns Endorsement of Former Statehouse Hopeful Bill Butts

(GALESBURG) Former Statehouse candidate Bill Butts endorsed newcomer Josh Watson (D-Galesburg) today in his race to unseat incumbent Don Moffitt (R-Gilson). Butts cited the need to improve the child support system and cut prescription drug costs for seniors as key issues. Butts withdrew from the race because of family health problems.

"I am proud to stand here today to give my full support to Josh Watson. It’s time for a change in Springfield, and I think Josh is just what the doctor ordered," stated Butts. "We must break the stranglehold of special interests on government and put it back to work for the people on issues like child support and prescription drugs. I’ll do whatever I can to send Josh Watson to Springfield to fight for us."

Watson welcomed the endorsement of Butts, saying he has helped shape the public debate on important issues. Watson has embraced the Butts plan to end the state’s contract with the scandal-plagued State Disbursement Unit in DuPage County, a plan which Moffitt opposes. Watson said he will also seek Butts’ advice on other issues, such as prescription drug coverage for seniors. According to the AARP, nearly 9,000 seniors in Knox, Henry, and Warren Counties are without prescription drug coverage. A recent ABC News poll found 56% of adults nationwide consider prescription drug coverage for seniors very important. According to Watson, it is a big local issue as well.

"As I’ve gone door-to-door, talking to voters about their concerns, health care is an issue that has come up again and again. No senior should be forced to ration their medication or choose between groceries and getting a prescription filled," said Watson. "I’m counting on the advice and support of Bill Butts and concerned citizens throughout the area to break the grip of the international drug companies on the political process. It’s going to take a grassroots effort to bring about real change."

Butts compared the race to David versus Goliath, but said that people have a tendency to root for the underdog. Watson has a long record of community service but has never sought office before. Moffitt is entering his fourth decade as an elected official.