Over the past two weeks, Illinois families have watched a troubling pattern unfold, one shaped by leadership that continues to turn away from law enforcement while embracing policies that leave communities more vulnerable. In Chicago, Mayor Brandon Johnson abruptly fired his Deputy Mayor for Public Safety, and the explanation that followed pointed to hostility toward law enforcement inside the mayor’s office. At the same time, reports revealed millions of taxpayer dollars flowing into “violence interruption” programs with little oversight and unclear results.
Then came a tragedy that should never have happened. Sheridan Gorman, an 18-year-old college student, was killed in an act of violence tied to a system that allowed a dangerous individual to remain in our communities . Just days later, Chicago unveiled an “Abolish ICE” snow plow, a move that felt disconnected from the reality many families are facing. As spring break began, chaos returned to downtown Chicago with another teen takeover, leading to fights and open defiance of law enforcement. These instances are part of a growing pattern that continues to shake confidence in leadership.
Illinois democrats are also putting forth dangerous bills. I’ve spent nearly 20 years in law enforcement. I know what it takes to catch dangerous criminals. That is why proposals like HB 5521 are so concerning. This bill strips away critical tools used every day to solve crimes, including facial recognition, fingerprints, voice identification, and eye scans. In fact, facial recognition was used to identify the Venezuelan migrant charged in Sheridan Gorman’s murder. Imagine having to look a victim’s family in the eye and explain that the very technology that could have helped bring justice was taken off the table. That is the reality this legislation creates, pushing law enforcement back into the Stone Age at a time when we need every tool available.
There is a better way forward. House Republicans have introduced more than 40 bills aimed at restoring balance, strengthening accountability, and supporting law enforcement, yet most have not even been called for a hearing. Families deserve leadership that takes public safety seriously and responds with action. Lives are at stake, and Illinois cannot afford to keep going down this path.
IBEW Local 176 Tour
I had the opportunity to visit the hardworking men and women of IBEW Local 176, part of the Will & Grundy Counties Building Trades Council. These are the men and women wiring our schools, powering our businesses, and putting in the long hours most people never see.
We talked about the future of the trades, the importance of strong training programs, and what it takes to keep good-paying jobs right here in our communities. I’ve always believed that when we support skilled trades, we strengthen families and build a stronger Illinois from the ground up.
Grateful for the conversation, the insight, and the work you do every single day!
HB5011 Passes Committee
I was proud to see my bill, HB5011, pass committee with bipartisan support.
We’ve got to get back to real policing. Officers shouldn’t feel pressure to go out and find something wrong just to hit a number. They should be free to respond when something actually is wrong.
That’s why I brought forth HB 5011. It puts an end to these backdoor quota systems that push unnecessary stops and strain the trust between officers and the public.
I’ll keep you posted as the bill moves through the process!
Easter Coloring Contest Winners
We had some incredible creativity come through for our Easter Coloring Contest!
Congratulations to our coloring contest winners: Brinley (age 6), Ella (age 10), and Hayley (age 6).
Great job! I’m proud of you. Keep creating!
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