Politics & Government

2nd District Candidate Ernest B. Fenton Aims for More Visibility than Jesse Jackson Jr.

The Homewood attorney speaks confidently about his plans for the 2nd District and ignores the competition.

Monday, Jan. 28, I met with Ernest B. Fenton at his law office in Homewood.

Fenton exuded confidence throughout the whole interview. For example, when asked how he would distinguish himself from the other candidates, Fenton quickly replied, "I don't know about any other candidates." Despite not being mentioned among the candidates likely to win this election, Fenton carries himself like a frontrunner.

Visit Ernest B. Fenton's candidate profile on Patch to watch the extended video of the interview.

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Key Issues

Stability in Housing

In much the same way Robin Kelly ties a lot of her key issues back into gun violence control, Fenton says everything is connected back to stability in housing. As a real estate and business attorney, Fenton touts himself as the best person to tackle affordable housing.

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Jobs

Fenton has spoken extensively about candidates needing to use the phrase "creating opportunities" rather than "creating jobs." As a longtime business owner, Fenton says he has already been creating jobs and that as a congressman he will be more prepared to create opportunities.

Noteworthy Quotes

"What I'm hearing when I'm out there walking is that Jesse Jackson Jr., as an example was not visible. I'm not condemning the man. I'm just saying what the people seem to desire." - On what he would do different from Jesse Jackson Jr.

The Takeaway

Fenton says his background as an entrepreneur and real estate attorney will help him to serve the 2nd District in a unique way. His concerns with the housing market and getting people affordable home could hit home for a lot of voters.

On the flip side, Fenton's seems to slip into legalese when discussing housing. He sometimes sounds more like he is in a courtroom than on the campaign trail. Some voters may find it difficult to get a handle on the specifics of his plans for the 2nd District.

What do you think? Has Ernest B. Fenton's understanding of the housing market swayed you to vote for him? Tell us in the comments!

NEXT: The Rev. Anthony W. Williams explains why he repeatedly runs for the 2nd District seat.

Return to our intro page to learn more about this series and see the full list of candidates.

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