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Dear Illinois Republican Family,
The strength of our party begins with each of you—our Precinct Committeemen and grassroots volunteers. I want to take a moment to share how truly grateful and honored I am to work alongside such dedicated individuals. When I was selected as State Party Chair this past summer, just a few months before Election Day, I knew the road ahead would be challenging. But I also knew this was a volunteer position I couldn’t pass up—because I love Illinois and am fully committed to fighting for the people of this great state.
I began this position 15 weeks ago, already blessed in marriage with 36 years and counting, six adult children, nine grandchildren, and thriving small business. I embraced our Republican Party, our candidates, and principles. Stepping into this role during such a pivotal moment has been humbling. As Chair, I’ve had the privilege of meeting so many of you—hardworking volunteers, dedicated Republicans who believe, as I do, that Illinois deserves better. I’ve seen the passion in our communities, the desire for real change, and an unshakable belief that together, we can make our state a place of opportunity, safety, and prosperity once again.
To me, being Chair isn’t just about leading a political party; it’s about standing up for the values that make Illinois great. It’s about fighting for families who deserve safe neighborhoods, for small businesses struggling under the weight of overregulation, and for the future of our children, who deserve the best education and opportunities possible.
We saw this momentum firsthand in Chicago, where leaders like Devin Jones, the 18th Ward Republican Committeeman and Chairman of the Southside GOP, played a key role in driving Republican turnout in predominantly Black wards. His grassroots organizing and civic education efforts have made a meaningful impact in his community and are to be commended.
Across the Land of Lincoln, our Bank Your Vote initiative also achieved record-breaking results, encouraging Republicans to participate in early voting and vote by mail in unprecedented numbers. Thanks to these efforts, we cut President Trump’s margin in half and closed the gap to single digits in areas historically considered part of the "blue wall."
I would also like to extend my gratitude to our Election Integrity Committee for their exceptional work in training poll watchers, recruiting election judges, and improving the accuracy of voter rolls. The committee’s efforts laid a solid foundation and created strong momentum. While we made meaningful progress, I believe all our committee members would agree that there is still important work ahead.
There is real momentum for conservative values throughout our state. This is a genuine opportunity to connect with independent and moderate voters, particularly on critical issues like the cost of living, crime, economic growth, taxes, and education reform. Illinoisans feel strongly about these issues, and it’s up to us to offer solutions and fight for the future they want. By capitalizing on these trends and preparing early, Illinois Republicans can make 2026 a transformative year for meaningful change. With energy and unity, we can shape a stronger future for Illinois, where conservative values lead the way.
Under a Trump administration, Illinois Republicans have a unique opportunity to look forward to the 2025 municipal and 2026 election cycles. Although Illinois has historically leaned blue, over recent years, our conservative base has grown stronger and more engaged in grassroots efforts. By continuing to build on this momentum—whether through school board elections, community meetings, or town halls—Republicans can energize new supporters and bring greater visibility to conservative candidates at every level of government.
With key congressional, constitutional statewide offices, and local legislative seats up for grabs, Republicans have the chance to put conservative principles into action on crucial issues like fiscal responsibility, public safety, and educational reform. The 2026 elections will be a critical opportunity to shape Illinois’ leadership with policies aimed at reducing the state’s high tax burden, supporting business growth, and ensuring safer communities.
We must continue to remain firm and push back against the Democrats’ reckless tax-and-spend agenda. The Governor’s Office of Management and Budget (GOMB) issued a projection for a $3.2 billion state budget deficit for FY26. This is unsustainable and unfair to Illinois taxpayers, and it underscores the need for responsible, conservative financial leadership.
Illinois Republicans have a real opportunity to bring hope and meaningful change to our state in the coming years. But this movement begins with you—our dedicated Committeemen and grassroots volunteers. Your work is the backbone of our efforts, and your dedication is what will help us reach voters in every community. Together, let’s keep pushing for a better Illinois. Let’s show Illinoisans that the conservative path offers a future of opportunity, freedom, and prosperity. I am honored to stand with each of you in this fight. Thank you for all you do!
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