Tuesday, Nov. 03, 2009

Judy Cates postpones run for judgeship

Will wait until June deadline

Judy Cates won't be on the Democrat primary ballot as a candidate for circuit judge.

Cates announced Monday that she would wait until the June 21, 2010, deadline, allowing her the option of running as an independent against the presumptive Democratic candidate -- Associate Circuit Judge Mike Cook, who was endorsed by the St. Clair County Democratic Party.

By waiting to file, Cates could come onto the ballot in the November 2010 general election as an independent, saving money and resources in what could be a contentious battle with Cook in the Democratic primary.

Cook, the son of Belleville attorney and influential Democrat Bruce Cook, could not be reached for comment on Monday afternoon.

"This will give all of the voters in St. Clair County the opportunity to consider me as a candidate regardless of their party affiliation," Cates stated in a written release. "My strong believe remains that judicial elections should focus on the merits of the candidates qualifications and the will of an informed electorate."

The deadline to file for the party primaries is today at 5 p.m.

Cates will continue to practice law, serve on Belleville District 201's school board, as well as preparing to run for the judicial vacancy created when Annette Eckert announced her retirement last month.

Cates will begin raising funds for her campaign.