Watch CBS News

At Issue: AG Office Needs To Be More Aggressive, Renato Mariotti

CHICAGO (WBBM NEWSRADIO) -- Former federal prosecutor Renato Mariotti says his practical experience is going to set him apart in what's turned out to be a crowded race for Illinois Attorney General next year.

The field of candidates for AG include some big names, including former Gov. Pat Quinn, State Sen. Kwame Raoul and Jesse Ruiz, Chicago Park District President. But Mariotti says he's a different kind of candidate.

"I think I'm the only person in the race who either isn't in elected office now or hasn't been appointed by Rahm," he said.

RELATEDSen. Kwame Raoul Attacked For Donations From Tobacco Titan

Mariotti isn't unknown. He's been a frequent legal commentator about President Trump's actions on CNN and MSNBC, as well as other outlets, and he sees the Attorney General's Office as one to advocate for everyday people.

"I think we need to be more aggressive with that office. Not only resisting President Trump, who I really believe is a threat to our democracy, but I also think we need to be aggressive about going after the rich and powerful.

"I think that the deck is getting stacked in their favor -- it's being stacked against average working people. That is the number one thing I think I could do as attorney general."

Mariotti's comments can be heard in their entirety during this weekend's "At Issue," which runs 9:30 p.m. Sunday.

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.