Earning a 100% Pro-Small Business Voting Record
I’m proud to have earned a 100% voting record from the National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB), Illinois’s leading small business advocacy organization. I was one of only five state senators to receive a perfect score.
To me, this recognition is about the people who take a chance on opening a business. Whether it’s a pizza shop, hair salon, auto repair shop, family restaurant, or another local business, every one of them represents someone willing to work hard and invest in their community. My job is to make sure Springfield isn’t making that harder.
That’s why I’ve consistently supported legislation to cut unnecessary regulations, push back against costly mandates, reduce legal burdens, address rising energy and health insurance costs, and strengthen workforce development.
The businesses on our Main Streets are absolutely crucial to creating jobs, serving our neighbors, and helping keep our local communities strong.
I’ll continue voting for policies that give Illinois small businesses the opportunity to grow and succeed.
Meeting with the Stephenson County Highway Commissioners Association
I always appreciate the opportunity to meet with the Stephenson County Highway Commissioners Association and spend time with the people who help keep our roads safe and reliable.
During my visit, I shared an update on what happened during this year’s legislative session and talked about several of the issues coming out of Springfield that could affect our communities. The conversation afterward was just as valuable. I was asked thoughtful questions about the challenges facing local roads and infrastructure, and I appreciated hearing the perspective of the people who deal with those issues every day.
Meetings like these are an important reminder that the best ideas don’t always come from the Capitol. They come from the people doing the work and serving their communities. Hearing directly from local leaders helps me better represent the 45th Senate District and advocate for practical solutions in Springfield.
Thank you to the Stephenson County Highway Commissioners Association for the conversation, and everything you do for our communities.
Winnebago County Tornado After-Action Report
This spring’s tornadoes tested our communities in ways none of us will soon forget. While the damage was significant, they also brought out the very best in the people of Winnebago County.
I’m pleased to share Winnebago County’s After-Action Report, which provides a behind-the-scenes look at how first responders, emergency managers, local governments, utility crews, healthcare providers, nonprofits, volunteers, and countless others came together to respond and recover. It also highlights the lessons learned that will help strengthen our preparedness for future emergencies.
I encourage you to take a few minutes to read the report.
Most importantly, I want to thank everyone who answered the call. To our law enforcement officers, firefighters, EMS personnel, highway departments, ComEd crews, public works employees, volunteers, businesses, faith-based organizations, and neighbors who donated their time and resources—your compassion and commitment made an incredible difference. Our community is stronger because of you.
Read the full report here.
