Meeting with Jo Daviess County Legislative Leaders
I recently had the opportunity to meet with members of the Jo Daviess County Legislative Committee to provide an update on the recent Veto Session and discuss the work ahead as the General Assembly prepares for the upcoming Spring Session. I appreciate the invitation and the chance to speak directly with local leaders who are closely connected to the issues facing our communities.
Our conversation covered several important topics, including affordability, the challenges facing county and township governments, and the overall direction of the state budget. These are issues that directly affect families, local governments, and taxpayers across Jo Daviess County, and it was valuable to hear firsthand perspectives from those working on the ground every day.
Discussions like these are critical to ensuring that decisions made in Springfield reflect local realities, not just talking points or political priorities. Input from county leaders helps shape more responsible, practical policy and strengthens the connection between state government and the communities it serves.
I am grateful for the Legislative Committee’s continued engagement and commitment to advocating for Jo Daviess County. I look forward to staying in close communication as we move into the Spring Session and continuing to work together on the issues that matter most to our residents.
Spring Session Gets Underway
Last week, I returned to the Capitol as the spring legislative session officially got underway, and I wasted no time getting to work. Families across our district are being squeezed by higher taxes and policies coming out of Springfield that put politics ahead of common sense. That has to change.
With key bill-filing deadlines coming up, I’ve been focused on advancing legislation that reflects the priorities I hear about every day.
That includes pushing back on immigration policies that support illegal criminals and strain local resources, standing firm in defense of Second Amendment rights, protecting the freedom of parents who choose to homeschool their children, and fighting to lower taxes so families can keep more of what they earn.
This session is about drawing clear lines and standing up for the people I represent. I’m ready to challenge bad policy and work aggressively to hold government accountable. I’ll continue being a strong, unapologetic voice for the 45th as the spring session moves forward.
Valentines for Seniors Card Drive Underway
As Valentine’s Day approaches, I’m inviting families across the 45th District to help spread a little extra kindness to local seniors by taking part in my annual Valentines for Seniors Card Drive.
For many seniors, this time of year can be especially lonely. A simple Valentine’s Day card may seem small, but it can make a real difference by reminding someone that their community is thinking about them. Whether it’s a handwritten note, a store-bought card, or a few words of encouragement, these gestures go a long way in lifting spirits and showing appreciation for the generations who helped build our communities.
Cards collected through the drive will be delivered to seniors in local care facilities to help brighten their holiday and let them know they are valued.
Residents are encouraged to drop off or mail Valentine’s Day cards to my district office. All cards must be received by February 7, 2026.
Cards can be dropped off or mailed to my office at 50 West Douglas Street, Suite 1001, in Freeport during regular business hours, Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Cards may also be placed in the marked mailbox inside the office during drop-off hours.
I hope you’ll consider joining me in helping make Valentine’s Day a little brighter for our local seniors.
Warm Neighbors Cool Friends Offers Energy Bill Assistance
As energy costs continue to climb, many families across Illinois are feeling the strain on their household budgets. To help ease that burden, Ameren is partnering with the Energy Assistance Foundation to provide additional support through the Warm Neighbors Cool Friends program, which offers bill payment assistance to qualifying customers throughout Ameren Illinois’ service area.
Each year, thousands of Illinois households struggle to keep their homes safe and comfortable during extreme winter and summer weather. With energy prices remaining high, the Energy Assistance Foundation recently committed an additional $2 million to expand relief for customers facing financial hardship.
Through the Warm Neighbors Cool Friends program, eligible households may receive up to $500 in assistance to help cover energy bills. To qualify, customers must have made a matching payment within the past 45 days. Eligibility is available to households with incomes between 200 and 300 percent of the federal poverty level or up to 80 percent of the county’s area median income.
Residents who want to learn more about the program or check eligibility can visit https://www.warmneighborscoolfriends.org/
