Illinois State SenateCandidato para Distrito 19

Education Funding – Education is the most important thing we do as a community. I believe every child should be provided a first class education in a safe environment. Regardless of the tough economic times we face, investing in a child’s education will provide a greater return in the long run. That’s why I fought to increase education finding by over $275 million, including a $25 million investment in early childhood education. It’s my mission to ensure all children receive the education they’ll need to compete in a global workforce.

Economic Development – I believe the best way to build our economy is to invest in people and support the working class. Since elected, I have made job-creating infrastructure upgrades and business development a top priority. I spearheaded efforts to add an interchange at Interstate 294 and Interstate 57, creating jobs, reducing congestion and improving travel times; and passed a bill allowing for the construction of a South Suburban Airport and worked to redevelop vacant business and residential lots and eradicate burdensome food deserts.

Mental Health Services – Unfortunately, our state’s correctional facilities are the newest mental health institutions. A good portion of the mentally ill would not be in our prison system if they just had received the proper treatment. I have fought for funding to provide for additional treatment and services for those that are mentally ill. There is still much work to be done, and I am committed to taking care of these most vulnerable citizens in our society.