Recent Arrest Related to Threats Against State Senator Andrew Chesney
On November 25, authorities arrested Joseph Haggerty, an inspector for the City of Chicago, after he sent two emails threatening physical harm to me through my official government account. The threats came the same day I participated in a press conference on illegal immigration and President Donald Trump’s proposal to deploy the National Guard to Chicago. The event received coverage from major media outlets, including ABC 7 Chicago and WBBM Radio Chicago.
As public officials, we expect criticism. People will disagree with our votes, our positions, and the stands we take. That is part of the job. But it crosses a very clear line when someone turns political disagreement into criminal behavior by issuing threats of physical harm. No elected official, regardless of party or viewpoint, should have to tolerate that.
I want to thank the Illinois State Police Division of Criminal Investigations for their swift and professional response. It is deeply troubling that a city inspector would issue violent threats against a sitting public official. This type of conduct must be taken seriously, and I am grateful for the work that went into bringing this case forward.
To read my full press release, click here.
Illinois’ SNAP Failures Are Costing Taxpayers Millions
Illinois’ administration of the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) has become a textbook example of government mismanagement, and taxpayers are the ones paying the price. Recent reports show Illinois now has one of the highest SNAP error rates in the country, and the situation is getting worse, not better.
Since 2017, the state’s error rate has nearly doubled, hitting an alarming 11.56 percent in 2024. Federal law is clear. Once a state crosses the 10 percent threshold, taxpayers are on the hook for 15 percent of the program’s total benefit cost. If Springfield does not get control of this mess, Illinois families could be stuck with a bill of more than $700 million.
Taxpayers deserve better than excuses and bureaucratic spin. SNAP is supposed to help families in need, not serve as another example of Illinois’ inability to run basic government functions. When the state cannot manage the program correctly, it wastes money, and erodes public trust.
SNAP is an essential resource for low-income households. It is our job to make sure it is run transparently and responsibly. Right now, that is not happening. Illinoisans deserve answers, not another costly failure.
Pet Adoption Fair Scheduled for December 13 in Freeport
I have a Pet Adoption Fair scheduled for Saturday, December 13, at the Friends Forever Humane Society in Freeport. I will be partnering with the Friends Forever Humane Society in Freeport for this popular annual event. As has been done in the past, I will help highlight animals that are available for adoption, with the hope of connecting people with new pets from the shelter.
Those who attend the event will be able to meet dogs and cats that are looking for forever homes and begin the adoption process. The Friends Forever Humane Society is located at 966 A. Rudy Road in Freeport, and the adoption fair will be held from Noon until 2:30 PM. Those with questions about this event are encouraged to call my district office at (815) 232-0774.
Illinois Celebrates 207 Years of Statehood
December 3rd marks Illinois’ 207th birthday, a moment to look back at how far our state has come since joining the Union in 1818. What began as a young frontier settlement has grown into one of the most influential states in the nation, shaped by generations of families, workers, and leaders who built their lives and communities here.
Over the past two centuries, Illinois has become a cornerstone of American agriculture, a national hub for transportation and commerce, and a home to world-class universities and groundbreaking innovation. From the small towns that anchor our local culture to the booming cities that drive our economy, each community has played a role in defining who we are.
Today is not just a birthday. It is a reminder of the values, history, and hard work that guide our future. As we celebrate, we continue working toward a stronger and more vibrant Illinois for every family.
