Dear John,

Some localities are so synonymous with big government, that it’s easy to fall into the trap of thinking they can’t be saved…

Or that freedom might have no chance in those regions…

But then occasionally we’ll see something to restore our faith.

That’s what happened recently in the city of Chicago.

In the March 19, 2024 primary elections, voters were asked to approve a proposed tax increase – a “mansion tax” pushed by progressives.

(They used that name hoping to trick voters. They wanted voters to think it would only apply to the ultra-rich. Of course, the truth is that it’s a much more expansive real estate tax, even affecting many small businesses in the city.)

Leftists thought they had a slam-dunk ballot measure, but were shocked when they saw the results roll in.

They realized they underestimated the strength of the opposition.

Micky Horstman, a communications associate at Illinois Policy Institute, an Atlas Network partner in Chicago, helped educate local residents about the importance of voting ‘No.’

Earlier this year, Micky attended Atlas Network Academy’s MarCom 360 training.

He learned new marketing and communications strategies and returned to Chicago to share them with his team.

He implemented new strategies for social media content, target pitching, and op-ed placements.

On Election Day, Chicago voters rejected the tax increase by a margin of 54% - 46%, or over 15,000 votes.

The successful opposition to the tax increase—even in ‘deep blue’ Chicago—shows that we shouldn’t ever give up on localities that seem too far gone.

Micky and the Illinois Policy Institute showed how dedication and strategic action can bring about change, and we were proud to support their efforts with our training programs and coaching.

Freedom can prevail, even where you’d least expect it.

All my best,

Kam