Births on January 16

Judy Baar Topinka, American journalist and politician (d. 2014)

Judy Baar Topinka (January 16, 1944 – December 10, 2014) was a formidable and groundbreaking American politician from the U.S. State of Illinois, renowned for her fiscal conservatism, independent spirit, and a career that spanned over three decades. A prominent member of the Republican Party, Topinka consistently broke barriers throughout her distinguished public service.

Early Life and Legislative Career

Before her significant entry into state politics, Judy Baar Topinka honed her communication skills and a keen understanding of public affairs as a journalist. This background provided a strong foundation for her subsequent political endeavors, equipping her with an ability to connect with the public and articulate complex issues.

Her legislative career began in the Illinois General Assembly, where she served with distinction:

• Illinois House of Representatives (1981-1985): Topinka first represented her constituents in the lower chamber, establishing herself as a dedicated public servant. During her tenure, she gained valuable insight into state governance and the legislative process.
• Illinois Senate (1985-1995): Following her successful time in the House, she advanced to the Illinois Senate, where she served for a decade. In the Senate, she played a crucial role in shaping state policy and built a reputation for her pragmatic approach and bipartisan cooperation.

Trailblazing Tenure as Illinois State Treasurer

One of the most defining chapters of Judy Baar Topinka’s career was her service as Illinois State Treasurer, a role she held for three consecutive terms, totaling 12 years, from 1995 to 2007. Her time as Treasurer was marked by several historic achievements that solidified her place in Illinois political history:

• First Woman State Treasurer: In 1995, Topinka shattered a significant glass ceiling by becoming the first woman ever elected to the office of Illinois State Treasurer. This victory marked a pivotal moment for women in Illinois politics, demonstrating that gender was no barrier to holding high statewide office.
• Longest-Serving Treasurer: She was also the first individual to be elected to three consecutive terms as State Treasurer, a testament to her consistent electoral appeal and effective, trustworthy management of the state's financial assets and investments.
• Return of a Republican: Her initial election in 1994 was particularly noteworthy as she was the first Republican to hold the post of Illinois State Treasurer in more than 32 years, breaking a long-standing Democratic hold on the office and signaling a shift in the political landscape.
• Sole Republican Statewide Officeholder: During her final term as Treasurer (2003-2007), she stood as the only Republican to hold statewide elected office in Illinois, highlighting her unique ability to win broad, cross-party support even in a state that was increasingly trending Democratic. Her ability to appeal to voters across the political spectrum was a hallmark of her career.

Party Leadership and Gubernatorial Campaign

Topinka's influence extended beyond her elected office. In 2002, her leadership qualities were recognized when she was elected chair of the Illinois Republican Party, a position she held until 2005. In this capacity, she worked to strengthen the party's presence across the state and strategized for future electoral success.

In 2006, Judy Baar Topinka made the ambitious decision to run for Governor of Illinois, opting not to seek re-election as Treasurer. In March 2006, she successfully secured the Republican nomination, making history once again as the first Republican woman ever nominated for Governor of Illinois. She was also only the second woman overall to receive a major party’s gubernatorial nomination in Illinois, following Democratic nominee Dawn Clark Netsch’s pioneering run in 1994. Despite her groundbreaking nomination and a spirited campaign focused on fiscal reform and good governance, Topinka ultimately lost the general election to the Democratic incumbent, Rod Blagojevich.

Illinois Comptroller and Enduring Legacy

Undeterred by her gubernatorial defeat, Judy Baar Topinka continued her commitment to public service. In 2010, she successfully campaigned for the office of Illinois Comptroller, a role primarily responsible for the state's financial record-keeping, auditing, and payment processes. She diligently served in this capacity, overseeing the state's fiscal health and ensuring transparency.

Her continued popularity and the public's trust in her financial oversight were evident when she was re-elected for a second four-year term as Comptroller in November 2014. Tragically, her life of dedicated public service came to an abrupt end when she passed away on December 10, 2014, just a month after her re-election, due to a stroke. Her sudden passing marked the end of a remarkable and impactful career dedicated to the people of Illinois.

Judy Baar Topinka's legacy is defined by her pioneering achievements, her unwavering dedication to fiscal responsibility, and her distinctive, often outspoken, voice in Illinois politics. She remains a significant figure, particularly for her role in breaking down gender barriers in state leadership positions and for her tireless work as a financial steward for the state.

Frequently Asked Questions About Judy Baar Topinka

What made Judy Baar Topinka a significant figure in Illinois politics?

Judy Baar Topinka was significant for her trailblazing achievements, including being the first woman elected Illinois State Treasurer and the first to serve three consecutive terms in that office. She was also the first Republican Treasurer in over three decades and the first Republican woman nominated for Governor of Illinois. Her career was also marked by her independent spirit and strong advocacy for fiscal responsibility.

Which political offices did Judy Baar Topinka hold throughout her career?

Throughout her extensive political career, Judy Baar Topinka held several key offices in Illinois: she served in the Illinois House of Representatives (1981-1985), the Illinois Senate (1985-1995), as Illinois State Treasurer (1995-2007), and as Illinois Comptroller (2011-2014). She also held the leadership position of chair of the Illinois Republican Party from 2002 to 2005.

When did Judy Baar Topinka pass away, and what was her last elected office?

Judy Baar Topinka passed away on December 10, 2014, due to a stroke. At the time of her passing, she was serving her second term as Illinois Comptroller, an office she had been re-elected to just one month prior in November 2014.