Our economy is still recovering, and the job market is still not perfect. No matter the winners of this fall’s local races — namely the 13th Congressional District and the 52nd and 103rd state districts — when they step into office and begin a new term, this economy will be a major focal point.

Concurrently, as the new faces of Congress and the Illinois General Assembly get settled into jobs, millions of college students across the nation will be getting ready to graduate and become part of the American workforce that is less bleak than it was a few years ago.

Many graduates will spend months looking for a job, and even among those who secure employment, many will move back in with their parents.

These are some of the best and brightest in the world. The leaders of the local districts should want to keep these talents locally, even after the graduation caps have been thrown in the air.

We ask that the leader of the 13th District fight in Congress for fair federal Ilregulations that keep businesses in the area both open and able to grow. We ask that the leaders of the 52nd and 103rd districts fight for what’s due, even in the cash-strapped Illinois General Assembly.