By Andy Dahn

BLOOMINGTON – The independent candidate in the special election of the 18th Congressional District wants to bring a new perspective to politics.

Connor Vlakancic has worked in Washington D.C. for 20 years and said voters who write his name on their ballot are sending a message to politicians.

“It’s a very deliberate act that says you want none of the above,” Vlakancic said. “You’re angry and you’re pissed off with politics as usual. This finally is a way that you can deliberately and specifically show your anger and frustration.”

If he defeats challengers Darin LaHood and Rob Mellon on Sep. 10, the native of Aurora said he will serve one term and will then support future potential candidates.

“Write my name on your ballot, and you are saying you’re angry,” said Vlakancic. “You’re an angry voter, an angry citizen and your life is nothing but troubles. You’re pissed off with Springfield, you’re pissed off with Chicago and you’re pissed off with Barack Obama.”

Vlakancic ran as a write-in candidate in the 11th Congressional District in 2014, but he said serving the people of Bloomington-Normal would be an honor.

“To be the congressman here in the 18th district, I need a home.” Vlakancic said. “I will choose the home, town, city or village that responds the strongest for me. I’d love it to be Bloomington-Normal.”

More information on Vlakancic and his campaign can be found at connorforcongress.org.

Andy Dahn can be reached at [email protected].