Illinois General Assembly

I would like to address the reasons why I am a Democrat from a broad perspective, given my current position within local government, which appropriately requires nonpartisanship as I represent the interests of our community’s children. Today, I speak to you as a Democrat because I do not view fiscal responsibility and support for residents as contradictory; rather, I see budgets as expressions of the priorities of those we serve. My commitment to public service stems from an earnest desire to resolve community challenges by focusing on collective needs instead of adhering to a singular ideology. Additionally, I am an Indivisible DuPage leader, and not so long ago on the ballot as a delegate for Elizabeth Warren, always motivated by a belief in thorough analysis and strategic planning. I am a Democrat today because I advocate for people, value understanding complex issues, and am dedicated to effective communication on matters that affect our community. While I have previously voted for local Republicans and served as a Republican election judge, it is equally important to note my lifelong involvement with the League of Women Voters, and consistent engagement with issues impacting our community.

Accomplishments

• Committed to my community over several years starting with League of Women Voters, PTA, and Glenbard District 87

• Lead vote getter in all 4 of my elections, even against incumbents

• Three times voted by my board colleagues President

• Respected community leader 

• Navigated Covid, and strongly advocated for weekly testing to return to school

Priorities When Elected

• I will maintain the committee assignments and focus areas of my predecessor and fulfill the responsibilities of the term while learning the procedures of the General Assembly

• During the primary, my priorities will include education funding, state revenue, collaborating with caucus colleagues, and overseeing state-supported projects

• I do not have a predetermined agenda and will apply my professional experience and community involvement to foster relationships and coalitions for the benefit of the community and state

Margaret Deserves Your Vote Because…

Many residents in District 42 know me through Glenbard communications, board meetings, and updates, making my name familiar on the ballot. For those who don’t, I introduce myself door-to-door. I’ve received three Daily Herald endorsements, consistent support from D87 teachers, and I strive to be a thoughtful advocate for our community and students. This is my chosen community, and I’m committed to creating positive change.

https://blairsherlockfor46.com/ 

Running as the incumbent

I am a Democrat because my values align, i.e., caring about people, the environment and future generations.

Accomplishments 

• Passed bill to convert 529 plans without penalty

• Obtained funds for the McKee House and other local projects

• Cosponsored Dignity in Pay Act (fair wages for people with disabilities)

• Fought to increase Direct Support Professional (DSP) wages

Priorities When Elected

• Protecting our most vulnerable from draconian federal cuts in health care, food security, housing, and disability services

Diane Deserves Your Vote Because…

I understand my constituents and the needs of our community.  I will not genuflect to special interests or bullies, and will continue to advocate for the protection and restoration of our Constitutional rights.

https://ericaforil47.com/ 

Currently serves as a Wheaton City Council Member at Large

I am a Democrat because I believe in fair representation for all members of our communities. 

Accomplishments

• Wheaton City Councilwoman (6 years)

• Elected leader within the Illinois Education Association 

• Public school educator (32 years)

Priorities When Elected

• Strong public schools and career programs

• Purposeful relationships between local governments and the state to most effectively serve people in our communities, 

• Affordability so families, young people, retirees, and all residents can thrive

Erica DeservesYour Vote Because…

I will listen. I will collaborate. I will be a voice for the people of the 47th District. It's the type of representation we all deserve!

I'm a Democrat because I want to live in a society where everyone is welcome no matter who they are or where they come from. 

Accomplishments

• My background as a community organizer and activist. It has given me the opportunity to meet people from all walks of life and hear what they are struggling with the most.  

• My work in non-profit law, especially at the National Immigrant Justice Center's LGBTQ project. I helped clients who couldn't afford legal services apply for asylum so  they could stay in America and not be sent back to countries where they would be persecuted because of who they love.

• My advocacy for mental healthcare. While I was just one of many who worked on the campaign, I am proud to say that I helped gather signatures for the Milton Township 708 board.

Priorities When Elected

• Healthcare: with the impending medicaid cuts it's imperative that we invest in public healthcare at a statelevel to keep our hospitals open. 

• Progressive revenue sources: we've relied on regressive taxes, like sales tax and property tax, in Illinois for far too long. It's time that we make corporations and the wealthy pay their fair share to fully fund our state, and shift the burden away from middle class and working class households. 

• Speaking out against the Trump adminstration and passing laws that insulate our state from the worst of this administration's actions. I've been very disappointed that the current State Senator (Seth Lewis) has said nothing about Donald Trump's threats to send the national guard to Illinois. This is a direct threat against our state's sovereignty and every Illinois lawmaker must speak out against it. I will not stay quiet about what the madman in the White House is doing. 

• I believe we need to be creative at the state-level in passing laws that can protect us against the Trump administration. Perhaps we could look into passing a law where Illinois withholds tax revenue when the federal government refuses to disburse funds to our state that Congress has already earmarked for us.

Ben Deserves Your Vote Because…

I understand the things that people are struggling with everyday. Food prices are going up, healthcare is too expensive, students go into exorbitant amounts of debt to get an education, rent is too high. I've dealt with these problems all firsthand, and they are the exact issues I want to help fix in Springfield