State Senator Chris Balkema (R-Channahon) today announced he is running for re-election to the Illinois State Senate, reaffirming his commitment to fiscal responsibility, government accountability, and fighting for working families across the 53rd Senate District. Since taking office in January 2025, Senator Balkema has pushed back against the policies driving up costs for Illinois families. He has championed legislation to cap property tax hikes, opposed the $1.50 delivery tax on online purchases, and voted against Governor Pritzker’s $55 billion budget that expands state bureaucracy without delivering real relief.

ANDALUSIA, IL – State Senator Neil Anderson (R-Andalusia) announced today that he is running for re-election to continue serving the IL-47th District. Anderson, who serves as the Senate Republican Caucus Chair, remains focused on providing outstanding constituent service in the 15 counties he serves across Western Illinois and focused, effective leadership in the General Assembly. “I’m committed to God, family, and country which motivates me to put my best into public service,” said Anderson. “The laws we pass in Springfield have a direct impact on the day to day lives of the people we represent. It is absolutely critical that we give them the best possible opportunity to succeed. I am appalled at some of the outcomes we burden people with in our state, and I am working to find ways to share the ‘downstate perspective’, defeat horrible legislation, and bring common sense, conservative values to the process.”

Linda Polacek, a U.S. Marine Corps veteran, mother of two, and dedicated community volunteer, has officially announced her candidacy for the Illinois State Senate in the 23rd District. She is running to stand up for families working hard to make ends meet and to hold the line on taxes in Springfield. “I’m running because I believe families in our district need a strong voice in Springfield—someone who understands hard work, service, and what it means to give back,” said Polacek. “My life has been shaped by sacrifice, perseverance, and a commitment to community. That’s the kind of leadership I’ll bring to the State Senate.”

U.S. Air Force veteran and retired police officer Edgardo “Eddie” Perez today announced his candidacy for the Illinois State Senate in the 42nd District as a Republican, vowing to be a strong voice for public safety, children and families, and holding the line on taxes. “As a father, veteran, and lifelong public servant, I’ve seen how high taxes and out-of-touch policies are making it harder for families to get ahead,” Perez said. “I know what it’s like to live paycheck to paycheck, and I’m running to put families first and fight for real relief that makes life more affordable.”