When will Gov. Pritzker and Mayor Johnson Wake Up to the Public Safety Crisis?
Another day, another violent attack on the brave men and women who put on the badge to protect our communities.
On Friday evening, two Chicago police officers were shot while trying to arrest a suspect on the city’s South Side. According to police, officers stopped what was described as a homemade vehicle. When the suspect fled on foot, officers gave chase. During the struggle that followed, he allegedly pulled a firearm from a bag and opened fire.
One officer was shot in the arm and required surgery. Another was struck in the abdomen, but thankfully his ballistic vest prevented what could have been a fatal injury. Both officers are expected to recover, and I am incredibly grateful for that.
The suspect now faces multiple serious felony charges, including attempted murder of a peace officer, aggravated battery of a peace officer, and unlawful firearm possession as a repeat felon.
As someone who spent nearly two decades in law enforcement, stories like this hit close to home. Every officer understands that a routine stop can become a life-or-death encounter in an instant. They continue to answer those calls anyway because they have made a commitment to protect others.
What is becoming increasingly difficult to accept is the continued failure of Illinois’ political leadership to treat public safety with the urgency it deserves.
Governor Pritzker and Mayor Brandon Johnson continue to insist that Illinois is moving in the right direction, but families and law enforcement officers are living a much different reality. Officers are being assaulted, criminals continue to carry illegal firearms, and repeat offenders are too often back on our streets.
I am praying for the full recovery of both officers and for their families during this difficult time. They answered the call to serve our communities, and they deserve our gratitude, our respect, and leaders who are willing to fight for safer neighborhoods.
Illinois can do better. It’s time Gov. Pritzker and Mayor Johnson acknowledged the public safety crisis and woke up! Enough is enough!
The 37th District’s Small Business of the Month is EggCetera Cafe!
I’m proud to recognize EggCetera as part of my Small Business Spotlight!
EggCetera is a local favorite thanks to its great food, friendly service, and commitment to our community. Small businesses like Eggcetera help make Mokena a wonderful place to live, work, and raise a family.
Continued success to the entire EggCetera team, and thank you for all you do for the 37th District!
Visit their website! https://www.eggcet.com
Lunch with Mayor Dodge
Thank you to everyone who joined Orland Park Mayor Jim Dodge and me for the “Lunch with the Mayor” Town Hall.
I always appreciate the opportunity to hear directly from residents, answer questions, and have honest conversations about what’s happening in Springfield and here in District 37. Your ideas, concerns, and feedback help me better represent our community.
Thank you to Mayor Dodge, the Orland Park Public Library, and everyone who took time out of their day to attend. I look forward to continuing these conversations and working together to keep our community strong.
Museum Passes
Summer’s here! Have you heard about the Museums in the Park Constituent Education Resource Card? It’s your ticket to unforgettable experiences across Chicago’s most inspiring museums.
This card offers complimentary general admission for you and up to three guests, giving you the chance to enjoy places like:
Adler Planetarium
The Art Institute of Chicago
Brookfield Zoo & Lincoln Park Zoo
Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum & Chicago Botanic Garden
The Field Museum
Chicago History Museum
Museum of Contemporary Art
Museum of Science & Industry
John G. Shedd Aquarium
And more!
Request your free tickets below.
Fill out your summer reading log below!
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