JOBS

I will promote policies that encourage job growth for the people of the 28th District and throughout Illinois. We need policies that ease the despondency of our communities. We need to secure a more stable economic future. Illinois can no longer be ranked 48th in for job creation. To do this we should invest in more innovative and more sustainable industry and technology, along with offering support for our small businesses. We need to encourage job training opportunities to insure that our work force is skilled in the latest technological applications and skill needs. One way to create jobs is through bringing new technology firms to Illinois by expanding the state’s Technology Development Account program. Through this program over $75 million invested in Illinois venture capital firms has encouraged innovation, job growth, and business expansion. This program has created thousands of Illinois jobs and stimulated our economy. In addition, the program has a solid return on investment. By expanding this program we will create jobs in Illinois that will be here for years to come.

EDUCATION

Our children are our hope for the future. We’ve been promising to fix our children’s schools for over a generation. It is now time that we live up to our promise. Not only is it the right thing to do, it is our most effective investment in a better future. As every parent knows there is no better return on our investment then a child’s education. Illinois is home to some of the finest schools and some of the best universities in the country. But all of our children do not have access to those schools, and therefore they may not be prepared to succeed in our state universities or colleges. We can’t let our children slip through the cracks anymore. As your Senator, I will be committed to educational funding reform and increased educational opportunities to enable our children to develop their gifts and strengthen their talents. This is a promise our State can not afford not to keep.

TRANSPARENT GOVERNMENT

Ethical leadership is critical to sound government and strong fiscal management. It is important for the citizens of Illinois to know what their elected representatives are doing and why. This can begin by creating tougher checks and balances on every branch of State government so that no single person or group may abuse the power of their office. As your Senator I will seek to institute a process for thoughtful, honest and collaborative communication, instead of the attitude of privilege that has seemingly dominated Springfield. I will be available to engage your questions and listen to your concerns with an open and honest dialogue.

FISCAL ACCOUNTABILITY

The State needs experienced business leaders to put an end to the environment of excess. As your Senator I will call on my executive experience in Non-Profit organizations to end profligate spending. I will institute specific performance-outcome based goals because I know that every penny matters. I am going to fight to protect your hard-earned tax dollars. I am pledging to the voters transparent and equitable financial stewardship.

COMMUNITY-FOCUSED CULTURAL AND RECREATIONAL OPPORTUNITIES

Developing our public spaces is an important part of improving our communities and our State overall. Parks and playgrounds are integral parts of our neighborhoods. We should have safe and accessible places where you can exercise and socialize. Public parks and recreational areas can be cultural centers where sculpture and local events can attract tourism and unite residents. I would like to see programs like the Open Spaces Lands Acquisition and Development Program be expanded. I believe that strengthening our civic pride will go along way to ensuring more transparent and honest Government because we will be more invested in our neighborhoods.