Dupage Policy Journal

Former Republican Pete DiCianni has officially declared his switch to the Democratic Party as he announces his candidacy for DuPage County Recorder.

His ties to local Democrats, including DuPage County Chairman Deb Conroy, have stirred controversy within the DuPage GOP.

“I have closely observed DuPage County and have listened to the needs of its people and businesses, especially over the past decade,” Pete DiCianni said in a letter to constituents.

“I will be running as a Democrat in the primary election. Though I still have conservative values, sadly, the ideology of the Republican Party of DuPage is one I can no longer support. The DuPage GOP views words like moderate and bipartisan as four-letter words. This view has cost the party dearly the past few election cycles.”

“Regardless of a political party label, I will remain bipartisan, always support law enforcement, champion comprehensive public education, foster economic development, and be an advocate for people from all backgrounds, especially those who need the most help.”

DiCianni previously served as a Republican as DuPage County Board member and Mayor of Elmhurst.

As part of his campaign efforts, DiCianni will host a 'Petition Turn-in Breakfast’ at his sister Tricia's house and welcomes notarized petitions at his business, DiCianni Graphics located at 421 S. Addison Road in Addison.

DiCianni’s connection to local Democrats has been noted.

His company, Win Marketing, was paid $1,230.71 by Conroy’s DuPage County Chairman campaign.

At the time he was running against Conroy and Republican Greg Hart in that race, who he attacked from his County Board position.

Win Marketing – which has also provided services to other Democrat campaigns – provides political strategy and tactics, direct mail, web development and print services in aid of campaigns.

At the time, DiCianni said “You know what? (Deb Conroy) is my friend.”

DiCianni later launched public and direct opposition to Hart who opposed a bill by Conroy – then a state representative.

Conroy’s bill would have allowed for those who did not receive the Covid vaccine to face tracking and possible detention. Covid vaccines since have been linked to a number of serious side effects and limited efficacy.

DiCianni also pushed for Hart to be removed from his leadership role on the Heroin Opioid Prevention and Education Task Force for opposing Conroy and the health department's wishes.

In an act of overt political aggression, DiCianni joined five Democrats to press for a vote of "no confidence” for Hart.

At the time, board member Ashley Selmon of Elmhurst slammed DiCianni for bringing politics into the board room.

Conroy later defeated Hart and DiCianni in the race for Chairman.  

The DuPage GOP has been troubled after DiCianni’s direct ties to local Democrats and donations to Conroy from notable Republicans including DuPage County Board Member Sam Tornatore and former DuPage County Board member Donald Puchalski were publicized.

DuPage GOP Chairman Jim Zay, who oversaw the loss of the county’s leadership to Democrats over three years of disastrous local election losses, refused to denounce DiCianni and others for crossing party lines.

“Finger pointing and fighting is not the answer and that path will only continue to election losses,” Zay said in a letter addressing criticism of the three high ranking GOP’s members ties to Democrats, and Conroy in particular.