Rev. Brooks Reflects On Support For Rauner, Oberweis
CHICAGO (CBS) -- A South Side pastor who stuck his neck out by campaigning for Republicans Bruce Rauner and Jim Oberweis on Wednesday reflected on his decision, and the division it created in the African-American community.
"I took a beating, but it was all worth it," Rev. Corey Brooks said a day after Rauner defeated Gov. Pat Quinn, but Oberweis lost to U.S. Sen. Dick Durbin.
WBBM Newsradio's Mike Krauser reports Brooks, pastor of New Beginnings Church in Woodlawn, said he felt at times like he was the one running for office.
"I've discovered that … when you go against the status quo, and you go against what people have been doing for years, everybody is not going to be pleased with it," he said.
Brooks acknowledged his endorsement of Rauner and Oberweis caused some division in his own congregation, and among the black community in general, as black voters in Chicago long have been staunch Democratic voters.
"Not as much in my church, probably, because they know my heart, they know what I'm trying to do, and they understand me," he said.
Brooks said he received death threats containing derogatory slurs late last month, in calls that mentioned Rauner's name.
"There's an old saying that sticks and stones may break my bones, but words never hurt. That's a lie. Words hurt tremendously," he said. "The greatest lesson I've learned is it's not what people call you, it's what you answer to. Stay focused, stay committed, and stay firm on your beliefs, and it will pay off."
Brooks said he'll continue to support the best candidates, regardless of their party affiliation.