chicagosun-times--2020-09-07--Anna Schiefelbein, Illinois House 85th District Green Party nominee profile

The Chicago Sun-Times Editorial Board sent nominees for the Illinois House of Representatives a list of questions to find out their views on a range of important issues facing the state of Illinois and their districts .
Anna Schiefelbein submitted the following responses : 1 .
The COVID-19 pandemic has hammered the finances of Illinois .
The state is staring at a $ 6.2 billion budget shortfall in this fiscal year .
What should be done ?
Please be specific .
I have a $ 23.5 billion plan for revenue and spending : $ 2.5 billion for corporations to pay @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 12 billion to tax the trillions of dollars on Chicago markets that are currently not taxed at all .
More details can be found on my website , www.voteforanna.org .
2 .
What grade — “ A ” to “ F ” — would you give Gov .
J.B. Pritzker for his handling of the coronavirus pandemic ?
Please explain .
What , if anything , should he have done differently ?
- Daily reports were nice but the guidance plan for the schools could have been completed sooner .
3 .
In @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Floyd in Minneapolis , legislatures in some states have taken up the issue of police reform .
Should Illinois do the same ?
If so , what would that look like ?
I have been calling out for police reform for decades , my favorite solution is community policing .
Our communities do not want a “ us ” v. “ them ” mentality when it comes to the people who are supposed to protect and serve the community .
This will not fare well for anyone .
I would encourage mediation ; @ @ @ @ @ @ @ special prosecutors for police misconduct cases ; registry of allegations ; and a ban on consensual sex between law enforcement officials and persons in custody .
I will be presenting some of these solutions at the next Hot Topics session hosted by the DuPage County Green Party , which is on August 26th at 7pm .
4 .
Should the Legislature pass a law requiring all law enforcement officers to wear body cameras ?
Why or why not ?
I would be in favor of having a grant program for local jurisdictions to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ or money to have body cameras in their jurisdiction but not forcing taxpayers to pay more to curb the police .
I am a supporter of sovereign rights and am very leery on unfunded mandates to local jurisdictions .
This legislation seems like an expensive bandage to a wound that is bleeding profusely .
It is not only the cost of the equipment and logistics but also the storage costs of the information .
I would prefer to focus my energies on solving the underlying problem and create a stable economic environment for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ have revealed a comprehensive scheme of bribery , ghost jobs and favoritism in subcontracting by ComEd to influence the actions of House Speaker Michael Madigan .
Who ’ s to blame ?
What ethics reforms should follow ?
Should Madigan resign ?
I believe the two-party system is to blame .
Both of the major parties rely on corporate donations to finance campaigns and there is no one there to stop them .
According to the Illinois State Board of Elections database other large corporations contribute to politicians in Illinois .
Pepsico , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Gas are supporters of the Democratic Party from my understanding .
Green Party candidates will not accept corporate contributions , we will not be bought .
Illinois politicians need to stop receiving corporate contributions , especially judge candidates who receive money from law firms .
We need to ensure that our residents have fair access in the legislature and in the judiciary .
Ethic reforms that should follow is to take corporate money out of politics and put an end to machine-style politics through election reform .
Election reform could ensure that there @ @ @ @ @ @ @ For example , Fair Ballot Access could be enacted to ensure that there is fair ballot access .
Right now , third-parties are non-established parties and often are called “ last-minute spoilers ” when they achieve ballot access .
However , non-established parties are required under Illinois law to start later .
If the starting point for all those who want to be on the ballot was at the same time with the same petition requirements and deadlines without corporate contributions , this may create a much-needed system of checks and balances .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ true , then Mike Madigan should resign .
An apology of whoever did this should come forward now and make it a new day in Illinois !
6 .
Please tell us about your civic work in the last two years , whether it ’ s legislation you have sponsored or work you have done in other ways to improve your community .
My civic involvement does go back further than 2 years .
I was the President of the Woodridge Jaycees in 2015 and also received the Outstanding Citizen of the Year @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
I was a 3L Delegate at the Student Body Association at the UIC- John Marshall Law School from 2018-2019 and remained a role model in my community while I finished up school .
7 .
Please list three concerns that are specific to your district , such as a project that should be undertaken or a state policy related to an important local issue that should be revised .
- Universal Healthcare should be available .
- Additional infrastructure funds should be developed and green energy should be implemented .
8 .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ ?
- $ 2.5 billion for corporations to pay their fair share/close corporate tax loopholes $ 12 billion to tax the trillions of dollars on Chicago markets that are currently not taxed at all .
I hope it can be a new day in Illinois !
We have been under the 2-party regime for a long time and it is time the voters have more choices on the ballot .
9 .
What is your position on Gov .
J.B. Pritzker ’ s proposed graduated income tax ?
Please explain .
I believe @ @ @ @ @ @ @ answer but not the sole source of additional revenue .
My $ 23.5 billion plan would be able to make it a new day in Illinois , for revenue and for reasonable spending .
10 .
Illinois continues to struggle financially , with a backlog of unpaid bills .
In addition to a progressive state income tax — or in lieu of such a tax — what should the state do to pay its bills , meet its pension obligations and fund core services such as higher education ?
Pass the following $ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ : $ 2.5 billion for corporations to pay their fair share/close corporate tax loopholes $ 12 billion to tax the trillions of dollars on Chicago markets that are currently not taxed at all .
More details can be found on my website , www.voteforanna.org .
11 .
Should Illinois consider taxing the retirement incomes of its very wealthiest residents , as most states do ?
And your argument is ?
No , they should not .
I am an authorized tax e-filer and am sad when people in their 90s are still charged @ @ @ @ @ @ @ federal level .
Social security is not a whole lot of money and to have this as a taxable income on retirement income is not right .
I would not support that Illinois tax retirement income .
We can find other ways to earn revenue rather than always relying on income taxes .
What we need are voices outside the 2-party system to be in the legislature .
12 .
What can Illinois do to improve its elementary and high schools ?
My $ 23.5 billion plan for revenue and spending can fully @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for all .
Another thing we can do is to eliminate Common Core from our educational system .
I am a parent of two school-aged children in elementary school .
My oldest is in 4th grade and my youngest is in 2nd grade .
School is not how it used to be when I grew up , we had books and the teachers had time to implement their own plan .
With the federal Common Core standards , it is to my understanding , that teachers do not have time to implement their @ @ @ @ @ @ @ or barely keeping up with the standardized plan .
My husband and I opted out of the Illinois Assessment of Readiness ( IAR ) standardized test .
To me schools should be local and remain local .
13 .
Mass shootings and gun violence plague America .
What can or should the Legislature do , if anything , to address this problem in Illinois ?
Even though I am a supporter of the 2nd Amendment as a strict constitutionalist , I do believe reasonable solutions could be enacted that can produce significant differences @ @ @ @ @ @ @ sellers ; reinstating the 1968 definition of a gun-dealer ; banning sales at gun shows ; and a zero-tolerance policy on those who intentionally or knowingly sold guns to minors or those who do not have a FOID card .
14 .
Do you favor or oppose term limits for any elected official in Illinois ?
Please explain .
I support the following term limits and I understand that we need to get our pensions under control : We need to keep our government officials in office enough to have experience , provide @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of life , an opportunity to run for the seat again in a non-consecutive term , and to have more people experience being in office .
15 .
Everybody says gerrymandering is bad , but the party in power in every state — Democrats in Illinois — resist doing anything about it .
Or do we have that wrong ?
What should be done ?
It is to my understanding , that it is to their advantage to gerrymander and there is nothing stopping them .
I personally would like a non-partisan agency @ @ @ @ @ @ @ districts and will work hard to achieve this goal .
16 .
The U.S. attorney ’ s office in Chicago is investigating possible official corruption by state and local officials .
This prompted the Legislature to pass an ethics reform measure to amend the Lobbyist Registration Act ( SB 1639 ) .
It was signed into law in December .
What ’ s your take on this and what more should be done ?
The law is a good start , but does not take care of the money transfer problems .
I @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , however think-tanks and research agencies are available and I would like to see more individuals influence politics rather than lobbyists .
If we were to have lobbyists , they should be able to either lobby a politician or make a political contribution , but not both .
17 .
When people use the internet and wireless devices , companies collect data about us .
Oftentimes , the information is sold to other companies , which can use it to track our movements or invade our privacy in other ways .
When companies @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a greater risk of identity theft .
What should the Legislature do , if anything ?
People should have an opt-in of all information to be shared .
Currently , it is an opt-out law that does not fully protect people .
I wrote my law review comment on this subject , a link to the paper is found on my website , www.voteforanna.org .
18 .
The number of Illinois public high school graduates who enroll in out-of-state universities continues to climb .
What can Illinois do to make its state universities @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ?
Pass my $ 23.5 billion plan , which includes enough revenue to fully fund free college tuition .
19 .
What is your top legislative priority with respect to the environment ?
We need environmental justice and we need it now !
A ban on ethylene oxide will be my top priority .
Clean air is for everyone and laws should be enacted to preserve air quality .
20 .
What historical figure from Illinois , other than Abraham Lincoln ( because everybody ’ s big on Abe ) , do you @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Please explain .
Jane Addams because she devoted her life to helping others and she persisted , nothing stopped her from achieving her goals .
She graduated college , founded the first settlement house in the United States of America , which is Hull House .
Along with building a place that the poor could come to for shelter , food , Jane was also big on education and political action .
Hull House became a place for political research that pushed issues ( i.e .
the 8-hour day , women ’ s @ @ @ @ @ @ @ than have children working in factories ) .
She was not only devoted on the local level but made wide impacts on the national and international level .
She was the National Chairperson Women ’ s Peace Party and President of the International Committee of Women for a Permanent Peace .
These are few examples out of numerous of other accomplishments this one woman achieved .
I am in admiration that all this social and political work was accomplished by one person .
21 .
What ’ s your favorite TV , streaming @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Why ?
Legomasters is my favorite show .
It is amazing to see how individual bricks are brought together , brick-by-brick , to build something grand .

Candidate profile
Anna Schiefelbein
Running for: Candidate for Illinois State Representative, IL-85
Election Guide - Full Guide 2020 Election Voting Guide This article is part of our Illinois 2020 election voting guide. Click here to see more.
The Chicago Sun-Times Editorial Board sent nominees for the Illinois House of Representatives a list of questions to find out their views on a range of important issues facing the state of Illinois and their districts. Anna Schiefelbein submitted the following responses:
1. The COVID-19 pandemic has hammered the finances of Illinois. The state is staring at a $6.2 billion budget shortfall in this fiscal year. What should be done? Please be specific.
I have a $23.5 billion plan for revenue and spending:
Proposed Revenue
$2.5 billion for corporations to pay their fair share/close corporate tax loopholes
$9 billion in progressive income taxes
$12 billion to tax the trillions of dollars on Chicago markets that are currently not taxed at all.
Total Additional Revenue $23.5 billion
Proposed Spending:
$5 billion to Fully Fund PK-12
$4.5 billion for Universal Healthcare
$3.5 billion for Green Energy
$3 billion for Infrastructure
$3 billion to Fully Fund Human Services
$2.5 billion to have Free College Tuition
$2 billion for Pension Contributions
Total Additional Spending: $23.5 billion
More details can be found on my website, www.voteforanna.org.
2. What grade — “A” to “F” — would you give Gov. J.B. Pritzker for his handling of the coronavirus pandemic? Please explain. What, if anything, should he have done differently?
I would give him a “B-”
- Daily reports were nice but the guidance plan for the schools could have been completed sooner.
3. In the wake of the death of George Floyd in Minneapolis, legislatures in some states have taken up the issue of police reform. Should Illinois do the same? If so, what would that look like?
I have been calling out for police reform for decades, my favorite solution is community policing. Our communities do not want a “us” v. “them” mentality when it comes to the people who are supposed to protect and serve the community. This will not fare well for anyone. I would encourage mediation; ban on the use of choke-holds; special prosecutors for police misconduct cases; registry of allegations; and a ban on consensual sex between law enforcement officials and persons in custody.
I will be presenting some of these solutions at the next Hot Topics session hosted by the DuPage County Green Party, which is on August 26th at 7pm.
4. Should the Legislature pass a law requiring all law enforcement officers to wear body cameras? Why or why not?
I would be in favor of having a grant program for local jurisdictions to apply if they needed any additional resources or money to have body cameras in their jurisdiction but not forcing taxpayers to pay more to curb the police.
I am a supporter of sovereign rights and am very leery on unfunded mandates to local jurisdictions. This legislation seems like an expensive bandage to a wound that is bleeding profusely. It is not only the cost of the equipment and logistics but also the storage costs of the information. I would prefer to focus my energies on solving the underlying problem and create a stable economic environment for our residents.
5. Federal prosecutors have revealed a comprehensive scheme of bribery, ghost jobs and favoritism in subcontracting by ComEd to influence the actions of House Speaker Michael Madigan. Who’s to blame? What ethics reforms should follow? Should Madigan resign?
I believe the two-party system is to blame. Both of the major parties rely on corporate donations to finance campaigns and there is no one there to stop them. According to the Illinois State Board of Elections database other large corporations contribute to politicians in Illinois. Pepsico, Molson Coors, and People’s Gas are supporters of the Democratic Party from my understanding. Green Party candidates will not accept corporate contributions, we will not be bought. Illinois politicians need to stop receiving corporate contributions, especially judge candidates who receive money from law firms. We need to ensure that our residents have fair access in the legislature and in the judiciary.
Ethic reforms that should follow is to take corporate money out of politics and put an end to machine-style politics through election reform. Election reform could ensure that there are more choices on the ballot. For example, Fair Ballot Access could be enacted to ensure that there is fair ballot access. Right now, third-parties are non-established parties and often are called “last-minute spoilers” when they achieve ballot access. However, non-established parties are required under Illinois law to start later. If the starting point for all those who want to be on the ballot was at the same time with the same petition requirements and deadlines without corporate contributions, this may create a much-needed system of checks and balances.
I believe that if the allegations are true, then Mike Madigan should resign. An apology of whoever did this should come forward now and make it a new day in Illinois!
6. Please tell us about your civic work in the last two years, whether it’s legislation you have sponsored or work you have done in other ways to improve your community.
My civic involvement does go back further than 2 years. I was the President of the Woodridge Jaycees in 2015 and also received the Outstanding Citizen of the Year from the Village of Woodridge in 2015.
I was a 3L Delegate at the Student Body Association at the UIC- John Marshall Law School from 2018-2019 and remained a role model in my community while I finished up school.
7. Please list three concerns that are specific to your district, such as a project that should be undertaken or a state policy related to an important local issue that should be revised.
- Schools should be fully funded.
- Universal Healthcare should be available.
- Additional infrastructure funds should be developed and green energy should be implemented.
8. What are your other top legislative priorities?
- Propose the following $23.5 billion plan:
- Proposed Revenue
- $2.5 billion for corporations to pay their fair share/close corporate tax loopholes
$9 billion in progressive income taxes
$12 billion to tax the trillions of dollars on Chicago markets that are currently not taxed at all.
Total Additional Revenue $23.5 billion
Proposed Spending:
- $5 billion to Fully Fund PK-12
$4.5 billion for Universal Healthcare
$3.5 billion for Green Energy
$3 billion for Infrastructure
$3 billion to Fully Fund Human Services
$2.5 billion to have Free College Tuition
$2 billion for Pension Contributions
Total Additional Spending: $23.5 billion.
- Propose Fair Ballot Access.
- Propose Ranked Choice Voting.
I hope it can be a new day in Illinois! We have been under the 2-party regime for a long time and it is time the voters have more choices on the ballot.
9. What is your position on Gov. J.B. Pritzker’s proposed graduated income tax? Please explain.
I believe a progressive tax is part of the answer but not the sole source of additional revenue. My $23.5 billion plan would be able to make it a new day in Illinois, for revenue and for reasonable spending.
10. Illinois continues to struggle financially, with a backlog of unpaid bills. In addition to a progressive state income tax — or in lieu of such a tax — what should the state do to pay its bills, meet its pension obligations and fund core services such as higher education?
Pass the following $23.5 billion plan for revenue and spending:
Proposed Revenue
$2.5 billion for corporations to pay their fair share/close corporate tax loopholes
$9 billion in progressive income taxes
$12 billion to tax the trillions of dollars on Chicago markets that are currently not taxed at all.
Total Additional Revenue $23.5 billion
Proposed Spending:
$5 billion to Fully Fund PK-12
$4.5 billion for Universal Healthcare
$3.5 billion for Green Energy
$3 billion for Infrastructure
$3 billion to Fully Fund Human Services
$2.5 billion to have Free College Tuition
$2 billion for Pension Contributions
Total Additional Spending: $23.5 billion.
More details can be found on my website, www.voteforanna.org.
11. Should Illinois consider taxing the retirement incomes of its very wealthiest residents, as most states do? And your argument is?
No, they should not. I am an authorized tax e-filer and am sad when people in their 90s are still charged taxes on their social security on the federal level. Social security is not a whole lot of money and to have this as a taxable income on retirement income is not right. I would not support that Illinois tax retirement income. We can find other ways to earn revenue rather than always relying on income taxes. What we need are voices outside the 2-party system to be in the legislature.
12. What can Illinois do to improve its elementary and high schools?
My $23.5 billion plan for revenue and spending can fully fund K-12 and provide equal school opportunity for all. Another thing we can do is to eliminate Common Core from our educational system. I am a parent of two school-aged children in elementary school. My oldest is in 4th grade and my youngest is in 2nd grade. School is not how it used to be when I grew up, we had books and the teachers had time to implement their own plan. With the federal Common Core standards, it is to my understanding, that teachers do not have time to implement their own plan and are constantly playing catch-up or barely keeping up with the standardized plan. My husband and I opted out of the Illinois Assessment of Readiness (IAR) standardized test. To me schools should be local and remain local.
13. Mass shootings and gun violence plague America. What can or should the Legislature do, if anything, to address this problem in Illinois?
Even though I am a supporter of the 2nd Amendment as a strict constitutionalist, I do believe reasonable solutions could be enacted that can produce significant differences. Solutions include registration of guns and sellers; reinstating the 1968 definition of a gun-dealer; banning sales at gun shows; and a zero-tolerance policy on those who intentionally or knowingly sold guns to minors or those who do not have a FOID card.
14. Do you favor or oppose term limits for any elected official in Illinois? Please explain.
I support the following term limits and I understand that we need to get our pensions under control:
- 2-year seats, maximum of 3 consecutive terms;
- 3-year seats, maximum of 3 consecutive terms;
- 4-year seats, maximum of 2 consecutive terms; and
- 6-year seats, maximum of 2 consecutive terms.
We need to keep our government officials in office enough to have experience, provide them an opportunity to enjoy another aspect of life, an opportunity to run for the seat again in a non-consecutive term, and to have more people experience being in office.
15. Everybody says gerrymandering is bad, but the party in power in every state — Democrats in Illinois — resist doing anything about it. Or do we have that wrong? What should be done?
It is to my understanding, that it is to their advantage to gerrymander and there is nothing stopping them. I personally would like a non-partisan agency to use computer technology to draw the districts and will work hard to achieve this goal.
16. The U.S. attorney’s office in Chicago is investigating possible official corruption by state and local officials. This prompted the Legislature to pass an ethics reform measure to amend the Lobbyist Registration Act (SB 1639). It was signed into law in December. What’s your take on this and what more should be done?
The law is a good start, but does not take care of the money transfer problems.
I know lobbyists produce research and influence politics, however think-tanks and research agencies are available and I would like to see more individuals influence politics rather than lobbyists. If we were to have lobbyists, they should be able to either lobby a politician or make a political contribution, but not both.
17. When people use the internet and wireless devices, companies collect data about us. Oftentimes, the information is sold to other companies, which can use it to track our movements or invade our privacy in other ways. When companies share this data, we also face a greater risk of identity theft. What should the Legislature do, if anything?
People should have an opt-in of all information to be shared. Currently, it is an opt-out law that does not fully protect people. I wrote my law review comment on this subject, a link to the paper is found on my website, www.voteforanna.org.
18. The number of Illinois public high school graduates who enroll in out-of-state universities continues to climb. What can Illinois do to make its state universities more attractive to Illinois high school students?
Pass my $23.5 billion plan, which includes enough revenue to fully fund free college tuition.
19. What is your top legislative priority with respect to the environment?
We need environmental justice and we need it now! A ban on ethylene oxide will be my top priority. Clean air is for everyone and laws should be enacted to preserve air quality.
20. What historical figure from Illinois, other than Abraham Lincoln (because everybody’s big on Abe), do you most admire or draw inspiration from? Please explain.
Jane Addams because she devoted her life to helping others and she persisted, nothing stopped her from achieving her goals. She graduated college, founded the first settlement house in the United States of America, which is Hull House. Along with building a place that the poor could come to for shelter, food, Jane was also big on education and political action. Hull House became a place for political research that pushed issues (i.e. the 8-hour day, women’s suffrage, children receiving an education rather than have children working in factories). She was not only devoted on the local level but made wide impacts on the national and international level. She was the National Chairperson Women’s Peace Party and President of the International Committee of Women for a Permanent Peace. These are few examples out of numerous of other accomplishments this one woman achieved. I am in admiration that all this social and political work was accomplished by one person.
21. What’s your favorite TV, streaming or web-based show of all time. Why?
Legomasters is my favorite show. It is amazing to see how individual bricks are brought together, brick-by-brick, to build something grand.


chicagosun-times--2020-09-07--Ron Doweidt, Illinois House 85th District Republican nominee profile

Political/civic background : I have worked for a number of candidates and issues at the local level .
I have served as open lands commissioner in Woodridge and I have been on social boards The Chicago Sun-Times Editorial Board sent nominees for the Illinois House of Representatives a list of questions to find out their views on a range of important issues facing the state of Illinois and their districts .
Ron Doweidt submitted the following responses : 1 .
The COVID-19 pandemic has hammered the finances of Illinois .
The state is staring at a $ 6.2 billion budget @ @ @ @ @ @ @ should be done ?
Please be specific .
The things that should be done with the budget in 2021 are the things that should have always been done .
Work with a balanced budget .
That hasn ’ t been done since 2001 .
Stop wasteful spending , Stop pork spending .
Live within your anticipated revenue stream .
Review cost such as why education in Illinois is 50 % more per pupil than our neighbors .
There isn ’ t any difference in performance .
Review the 80 agencies the State has @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and possible eliminate others .
Pension reform is as much for participants as taxpayers .
Pensioners have no recourse if the system fails and I should think they would want to reduce the possibility of insolvency .
Virtually all 49 states cut their budgets as a result of the Pandemic .
Not Illinois .
Illinois increased the budget by $ 2 billion .
The General Assembly even tried to put through a salary increase .
2 .
What grade — “ A ” to “ F ” — would you give Gov .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ coronavirus pandemic ?
Please explain .
What , if anything , should he have done differently ?
With regard to the Governors response , it is the same for the President and the other 49 governors .
They are having to make decisions based upon very little scientific help .
I will paraphrase how the Illinois Director of Health put it .
She said we don ’ t know what we don ’ t know .
Only time will tell how well the Governor did .
3 .
In the wake of the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ legislatures in some states have taken up the issue of police reform .
Should Illinois do the same ?
If so , what would that look like ?
With respect to police reform , it to a degree is like reform in many organization .
Like the priesthood for example .
The reason I state this example , most of us would never believe the priesthood would needed reform .
When there are consequences to higher ups for the behovior of the rank and file I believe there will be change .
4 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ requiring all law enforcement officers to wear body cameras ?
Why or why not ?
I believe the more documentaion on an incident , the better to draw a conclusion .
That does not mean a bunch of useless paperwork .
Had there not been a dash cam in the Jayson VanDyke event things would have very different .
I believe body cams are as much value for the police as the accused .
It will stop many false accusations made against the police .
5 .
Federal prosecutors have revealed a comprehensive @ @ @ @ @ @ @ favoritism in subcontracting by ComEd to influence the actions of House Speaker Michael Madigan .
Who ’ s to blame ?
What ethics reforms should follow ?
Should Madigan resign ?
Federal prosecutors looking at the Speaker is nothing new .
The Speaker is a master at knowing the difference between unethical behavior and criminal activity .
Until there is esthetic reform in Illinois , nothing will change .
And that will not happen under the current leadership .
Who is to blame .
All parties , If its illegal to bribe it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Both parties should be prosecuted .
No hand slap 6 .
Please tell us about your civic work in the last two years , whether it ’ s legislation you have sponsored or work you have done in other ways to improve your community .
In the last two years I have worked with campaigns for candidates who have benefited my community and will continue to do so in the future .
7 .
Please list three concerns that are specific to your district , such as a project that should be undertaken @ @ @ @ @ @ @ important local issue that should be revised .
My three concerns for my community are the same concerns I have for the State .
1. improved our educational system .
Our students across the board need to be better prepared for the challenges of the future .
We are no longer an industrial society .
We are a technological society requiring greater skills .
Illinois educational systems is an abomination .
If Illinois and it communities want higher paying job , s they need to have the residents that can do those jobs @ @ @ @ @ @ @ finances give residents and employers the confidence to invest .
Illinois needs to vastly improve its financial house .
3 .
Property tax in Illinois is the second highest in the nation .
It lessens property value and it is a deterrent to business interested in locating here .
When elected I will sponsor a bill making all referendums appear on the national ballot where more people will be involved and the special interest will not control outcomes .
It will , I believe , put an end to run away tax increases @ @ @ @ @ @ @ top legislative priorities ?
I also know certain state agencies need bolstering .
The DCFS is in trouble as shown by the murder of the young boy in Crystal Lake .
Out mental health facilities need vast improvement .
9 .
What is your position on Gov .
J.B. Pritzker ’ s proposed graduated income tax ?
Please explain .
The Graduated Income tax proposal needs to be voted down .
The Governor will do his best to sell it to the low income family but they will be the ones hurt the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be a job killer and where states that have adopted it have shown the middle class are the first to see raises in their bracket .
Those states have also adopted taxing retirement income .
They have also witnessed the greatest flight of high paying tax residents and the least job growth .
When this issue is approve you have no say in the brackets or their percentages .
And the tax is not being sold to reduce debt .
One of the questions I have is why the Governor wants to raise @ @ @ @ @ @ @ his property tax .
It doesn ’ t add up .
10 .
Illinois continues to struggle financially , with a backlog of unpaid bills .
In addition to a progressive state income tax — or in lieu of such a tax — what should the state do to pay its bills , meet its pension obligations and fund core services such as higher education ?
I have already laid out where the state needs to get in order to paying its bills and righting the ship .
Unless it does , its @ @ @ @ @ @ @ wrote an article stating that Illinois is the poster child for bankruptcy .
This is a horrible thought .
Approximately 0ne million pensioners will be left out in the cold and the same people who were responsible for it will still be running things .
I can ’ t vision what this state would be like with a clean slate and a corrupt government .
11 .
Should Illinois consider taxing the retirement incomes of its very wealthiest residents , as most states do ?
And your argument is ?
12 .
What @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and high schools ?
Put a greater emphasis on k-5 so that students have a solid foundation to build on .
Teachers need greater insight to students family structure so intervention can be used for support .
13 .
Mass shootings and gun violence plague America .
What can or should the Legislature do , if anything , to address this problem in Illinois ?
Most of the violence occurs in poverty areas .
The federal and state governments need to start looking at poverty in a new light .
Since 1970 poverty @ @ @ @ @ @ @ without change .
Government continues to throw money at it hoping it will go away .
But it hasn ’ t .
two things .
Everyone knows education is the way out of poverty .
I have stated how I believe education can improve to help .
Secondly I believe those on welfare who truly want to get out should have a time limit program whereby they can continue on their support program but also go to work in any field .
At the end of a time period they can continue to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ stay with the job .
They can not benefit by both .
The program would be offered to an individual on a one time basis .
It word be complicated with many opportunities for abuse .
But I believe something like this might be worked out .
14 .
Do you favor or oppose term limits for any elected official in Illinois ?
Please explain .
I favor term limits .
However , the terms would need to change .
Many programs need time to develop and two years is not enough to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ work out the kinks .
The legislator would also need to define term limits .
In some states where they have term limits a legislator serves a term as a Representative then runs far a senate term then again as a representative when the senate term ends .
That defeats the purpose .
15 .
Everybody says gerrymandering is bad , but the party in power in every state — Democrats in Illinois — resist doing anything about it .
Or do we have that wrong ?
What should be done ?
If @ @ @ @ @ @ @ still have minority , esthetic and party strong holds but what we will hopefully prevent is State leadership form silencing strong opposition voices .
It will be complicated but better than what we have .
16 .
The U.S. attorney ’ s office in Chicago is investigating possible official corruption by state and local officials .
This prompted the Legislature to pass an ethics reform measure to amend the Lobbyist Registration Act ( SB 1639 ) .
It was signed into law in December .
What ’ s your take on this and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 1630 is puff it was totally sponsored by the Democrats and doesn ’ t address any real issues .
We really need to have a true reform by eliminating legislators from making money privately as a result of their political position .
17 .
When people use the internet and wireless devices , companies collect data about us .
Oftentimes , the information is sold to other companies , which can use it to track our movements or invade our privacy in other ways .
When companies share this data , we also @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
What should the Legislature do , if anything ?
We all know it is a data collecting world at both the private a government levels .
Both will make errors using it and it will be costly .
If you don ’ t want your information out , don ’ t give it out .
18 .
The number of Illinois public high school graduates who enroll in out-of-state universities continues to climb .
What can Illinois do to make its state universities more attractive to Illinois high school students ?
I @ @ @ @ @ @ @ school and are off to college .
One went out of state because she couldn ’ t get into her subject at U of I .
The other went private in Illinois .
I kind of got the idea her choice was random .
Her grades would have gotten her in anywhere .
I know there needs to be an end for financial support to enroll in Illinois schools and those funds need to be transferred to early childhood education .
Illinois schools had better research and find out why they are loosing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ top legislative priority with respect to the environment ?
I do not have a priority on the environment .
Daily business improves their standards because they learned efficiencies save money .
There are some polluters and those we should continue to make certain that they comply to standards .
20 .
What historical figure from Illinois , other than Abraham Lincoln ( because everybody ’ s big on Abe ) , do you most admire or draw inspiration from ?
Please explain .
How about Reagan , Carl Sandburg for two 21 .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ streaming or web-based show of all time ?
Why ?

Candidate profile
Ron Doweidt
Running for: Illinois House of Representatives District 85
Political party affiliation: Republican
Political/civic background: I have worked for a number of candidates and issues at the local level. I have served as open lands commissioner in Woodridge and I have been on social boards
Occupation:Financial Advisor
Education: BA in psychology from Southern Illinois University
Campaign website: Ron2thehouse.com
Facebook: Ron Doweidt
Election Guide - Full Guide 2020 Election Voting Guide This article is part of our Illinois 2020 election voting guide. Click here to see more.
The Chicago Sun-Times Editorial Board sent nominees for the Illinois House of Representatives a list of questions to find out their views on a range of important issues facing the state of Illinois and their districts. Ron Doweidt submitted the following responses:
1. The COVID-19 pandemic has hammered the finances of Illinois. The state is staring at a $6.2 billion budget shortfall in this fiscal year. What should be done? Please be specific.
The things that should be done with the budget in 2021 are the things that should have always been done. Work with a balanced budget. That hasn’t been done since 2001. Stop wasteful spending, Stop pork spending. Live within your anticipated revenue stream. Review cost such as why education in Illinois is 50% more per pupil than our neighbors. There isn’t any difference in performance. Review the 80 agencies the State has and combine those that can be, and possible eliminate others. Pension reform is as much for participants as taxpayers. Pensioners have no recourse if the system fails and I should think they would want to reduce the possibility of insolvency. Virtually all 49 states cut their budgets as a result of the Pandemic. Not Illinois. Illinois increased the budget by $2 billion. The General Assembly even tried to put through a salary increase.
2. What grade — “A” to “F” — would you give Gov. J.B. Pritzker for his handling of the coronavirus pandemic? Please explain. What, if anything, should he have done differently?
With regard to the Governors response, it is the same for the President and the other 49 governors. They are having to make decisions based upon very little scientific help. I will paraphrase how the Illinois Director of Health put it. She said we don’t know what we don’t know. Only time will tell how well the Governor did.
3. In the wake of the death of George Floyd in Minneapolis, legislatures in some states have taken up the issue of police reform. Should Illinois do the same? If so, what would that look like?
With respect to police reform, it to a degree is like reform in many organization. Like the priesthood for example. The reason I state this example, most of us would never believe the priesthood would needed reform. When there are consequences to higher ups for the behovior of the rank and file I believe there will be change.
4. Should the Legislature pass a law requiring all law enforcement officers to wear body cameras? Why or why not?
I believe the more documentaion on an incident, the better to draw a conclusion. That does not mean a bunch of useless paperwork. Had there not been a dash cam in the Jayson VanDyke event things would have very different. I believe body cams are as much value for the police as the accused. It will stop many false accusations made against the police.
5. Federal prosecutors have revealed a comprehensive scheme of bribery, ghost jobs and favoritism in subcontracting by ComEd to influence the actions of House Speaker Michael Madigan. Who’s to blame? What ethics reforms should follow? Should Madigan resign?
Federal prosecutors looking at the Speaker is nothing new. The Speaker is a master at knowing the difference between unethical behavior and criminal activity. Until there is esthetic reform in Illinois, nothing will change. And that will not happen under the current leadership. Who is to blame. All parties, If its illegal to bribe it is equally illegal to accept one. Both parties should be prosecuted. No hand slap
6. Please tell us about your civic work in the last two years, whether it’s legislation you have sponsored or work you have done in other ways to improve your community.
In the last two years I have worked with campaigns for candidates who have benefited my community and will continue to do so in the future.
7. Please list three concerns that are specific to your district, such as a project that should be undertaken or a state policy related to an important local issue that should be revised.
My three concerns for my community are the same concerns I have for the State.
1. improved our educational system. Our students across the board need to be better prepared for the challenges of the future. We are no longer an industrial society. We are a technological society requiring greater skills. Illinois educational systems is an abomination. If Illinois and it communities want higher paying job,s they need to have the residents that can do those jobs.
2. A state’s finances give residents and employers the confidence to invest. Illinois needs to vastly improve its financial house.
3. Property tax in Illinois is the second highest in the nation. It lessens property value and it is a deterrent to business interested in locating here. When elected I will sponsor a bill making all referendums appear on the national ballot where more people will be involved and the special interest will not control outcomes. It will, I believe, put an end to run away tax increases.
8. What are your other top legislative priorities?
I also know certain state agencies need bolstering. The DCFS is in trouble as shown by the murder of the young boy in Crystal Lake. Out mental health facilities need vast improvement.
9. What is your position on Gov. J.B. Pritzker’s proposed graduated income tax? Please explain.
The Graduated Income tax proposal needs to be voted down. The Governor will do his best to sell it to the low income family but they will be the ones hurt the most. The reason it will definitely be a job killer and where states that have adopted it have shown the middle class are the first to see raises in their bracket. Those states have also adopted taxing retirement income. They have also witnessed the greatest flight of high paying tax residents and the least job growth. When this issue is approve you have no say in the brackets or their percentages. And the tax is not being sold to reduce debt. One of the questions I have is why the Governor wants to raise his income tax while cheating to reduce his property tax. It doesn’t add up.
10. Illinois continues to struggle financially, with a backlog of unpaid bills. In addition to a progressive state income tax — or in lieu of such a tax — what should the state do to pay its bills, meet its pension obligations and fund core services such as higher education?
I have already laid out where the state needs to get in order to paying its bills and righting the ship. Unless it does, its only alternative is bankruptcy. Forbes Magazine wrote an article stating that Illinois is the poster child for bankruptcy. This is a horrible thought. Approximately 0ne million pensioners will be left out in the cold and the same people who were responsible for it will still be running things. I can’t vision what this state would be like with a clean slate and a corrupt government.
11. Should Illinois consider taxing the retirement incomes of its very wealthiest residents, as most states do? And your argument is?
Absolutely not
12. What can Illinois do to improve its elementary and high schools?
Put a greater emphasis on k-5 so that students have a solid foundation to build on. Teachers need greater insight to students family structure so intervention can be used for support.
13. Mass shootings and gun violence plague America. What can or should the Legislature do, if anything, to address this problem in Illinois?
Most of the violence occurs in poverty areas. The federal and state governments need to start looking at poverty in a new light. Since 1970 poverty has been in the 12-14% range without change. Government continues to throw money at it hoping it will go away. But it hasn’t. two things. Everyone knows education is the way out of poverty. I have stated how I believe education can improve to help. Secondly I believe those on welfare who truly want to get out should have a time limit program whereby they can continue on their support program but also go to work in any field. At the end of a time period they can continue to stay on welfare or get off and stay with the job. They cannot benefit by both. The program would be offered to an individual on a one time basis. It word be complicated with many opportunities for abuse. But I believe something like this might be worked out.
14. Do you favor or oppose term limits for any elected official in Illinois? Please explain.
I favor term limits. However, the terms would need to change. Many programs need time to develop and two years is not enough to establish a program and monitor it to work out the kinks. The legislator would also need to define term limits. In some states where they have term limits a legislator serves a term as a Representative then runs far a senate term then again as a representative when the senate term ends. That defeats the purpose.
15. Everybody says gerrymandering is bad, but the party in power in every state — Democrats in Illinois — resist doing anything about it. Or do we have that wrong? What should be done?
If we go to geographical lines we will still have minority, esthetic and party strong holds but what we will hopefully prevent is State leadership form silencing strong opposition voices. It will be complicated but better than what we have.
16. The U.S. attorney’s office in Chicago is investigating possible official corruption by state and local officials. This prompted the Legislature to pass an ethics reform measure to amend the Lobbyist Registration Act (SB 1639). It was signed into law in December. What’s your take on this and what more should be done?
SB 1630 is puff it was totally sponsored by the Democrats and doesn’t address any real issues. We really need to have a true reform by eliminating legislators from making money privately as a result of their political position.
17. When people use the internet and wireless devices, companies collect data about us. Oftentimes, the information is sold to other companies, which can use it to track our movements or invade our privacy in other ways. When companies share this data, we also face a greater risk of identity theft. What should the Legislature do, if anything?
We all know it is a data collecting world at both the private a government levels. Both will make errors using it and it will be costly. If you don’t want your information out, don’t give it out.
18. The number of Illinois public high school graduates who enroll in out-of-state universities continues to climb. What can Illinois do to make its state universities more attractive to Illinois high school students?
I just had two granddaughters graduate from high school and are off to college. One went out of state because she couldn’t get into her subject at U of I. The other went private in Illinois. I kind of got the idea her choice was random. Her grades would have gotten her in anywhere. I know there needs to be an end for financial support to enroll in Illinois schools and those funds need to be transferred to early childhood education. Illinois schools had better research and find out why they are loosing out.
19. What is your top legislative priority with respect to the environment?
I do not have a priority on the environment. Daily business improves their standards because they learned efficiencies save money. There are some polluters and those we should continue to make certain that they comply to standards.
20. What historical figure from Illinois, other than Abraham Lincoln (because everybody’s big on Abe), do you most admire or draw inspiration from? Please explain.
How about Reagan, Carl Sandburg for two
21. What’s your favorite TV, streaming or web-based show of all time? Why?
I am not a TV fan


chicagosun-times--2020-09-07--Dagmara ‘Dee’ Avelar, Illinois House 85th District Democratic nominee profile

Political/civic background : Community Organizer and Human Services administrator .
Member of the DuPage Township Democrats , the Will County Democrats and the Illinois Democratic Women of Will .
Board member for the Southwest Suburban Immigrant Project .
Occupation : Director of Programs at the Illinois Coalition for Immigrant and Refugee Rights .
• BA in Justice Studies with minor in Political Science , Northeastern Illinois University .
• Master ’ s in Urban Planning and Policy Candidate at the University of Illinois in Chicago .
The Chicago Sun-Times Editorial Board sent nominees for the Illinois House of Representatives a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ views on a range of important issues facing the state of Illinois and their districts .
Dagmara “ Dee ” Avelar submitted the following responses : The COVID-19 pandemic has hammered the finances of Illinois .
The state is staring at a $ 6.2 billion budget shortfall in this fiscal year .
What should be done ?
Please be specific .
The pandemic has exposed the many inequities and lack of social infrastructure to respond adequately to the needs of Illinoisans .
If elected , I will be dedicated to ensure we make @ @ @ @ @ @ @ s fiscal challenges by ensuring that we generate a foundation of revenue that will not only address the shortfall , but also build our state ’ s capacity to provide everyone with the ability to thrive and not just survive .
The time is long overdue for the wealthy and big corporations to pay their fair share of taxes .
They can easily do more to lift everyone up collectively while still continuing to live luxurious lifestyles .
Today , the wealthy are able to pay top dollar to exploit the many loopholes @ @ @ @ @ @ @ rest of us pick up the tab as we live pay-check to pay-check .
It ’ s not fair , and it ’ s not economically sound as the pandemic has revealed how vulnerable this flawed system leaves us all .
One important step that all voters can take to reform our unfair tax system is to vote to pass the FAIR TAX to help balance the budget .
Our low and middle class families and individuals can no longer bear the brunt of our unfair tax burden .
What grade — “ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ would you give Gov .
J.B. Pritzker for his handling of the coronavirus pandemic ?
Please explain .
What , if anything , should he have done differently ?
I would grade Governor Pritzker with an “ A ” for his leadership and making it clear that the state of Illinois believes in science .
Illinois leadership has allowed health experts , such as Dr. Ezeke , to lead and provide daily press conferences and move the state from a full quarantine to Phase IV of the reopening plan .
I commend the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ health of our communities by listening to local counties to divide regions and make decision making local to keep coronavirus cases down .
We must remain vigilant and continue to promote the use of masks , hand washing and free and accessible testing and treatment to all .
The state plays a key role in promoting these critical practices , and the Pritzker administration has shown an unwavering commitment to doing so .
In the wake of the death of George Floyd in Minneapolis , legislatures in some states have taken up the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ do the same ?
If so , what would that look like ?
Yes .
We need to restore trust in law enforcement and in order to do so we need to talk about police reform and put laws in place that will make sure that ALL Illinoisians are able to walk freely in our communities without the fear of being killed because of the color of our skin .
Police reform should include mandatory training on implicit bias and the elimination of no-knock warrants , so that tragic incidents like the death @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Furthermore , I will support legislation that requires law enforcement officials to intervene when another officer is breaking the law or acting in bad faith .
But we can not stop there .
We must also recognize that police are overburdened .
We must re-imagine what it means to serve and protect all our residents by ensuring that we are investing in solutions that address root causes of poverty and crime .
Therefore , we must critically examine our budget to ensure that we are making equitable investments in our district and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ programs , addiction treatment centers , jobs programs and other community resources that will create the long-term conditions that result in safe communities for all .
I want to make it clear that police reform legislation is not to be confused with being anti-police .
It is about increasing trust in our public servants and protecting one another while we reimagine the potential that we have as a state to move forward with justice as our beacon .
Should the Legislature pass a law requiring all law enforcement officers to wear body cameras @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
It is impossible to negate the need for legislation that tackles accountability and transparency in law enforcement .
Requiring body cameras for all law enforcement officers is a step in the right direction toward building trust among our communities .
Federal prosecutors have revealed a comprehensive scheme of bribery , ghost jobs and favoritism in subcontracting by ComEd to influence the actions of House Speaker Michael Madigan .
Who ’ s to blame ?
What ethics reforms should follow ?
Should Madigan resign ?
This series of unacceptable behavior has made one @ @ @ @ @ @ @ reform .
As public servants , we need to do everything in our power to limit the influence of corporate money in politics .
The cards are often stacked against everyday people like myself , discouraging us from running for office largely due to money in politics .
Please tell us about your civic work in the last two years , whether it ’ s legislation you have sponsored or work you have done in other ways to improve your community .
For over a decade , I have dedicated my life to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ projects addressing the barriers of low-income , limited English proficient Illinois residents .
A community organizer at heart , I have been involved in civic engagement efforts to get out the vote of low-propensity voters in the southwest suburbs since I was in college .
I have also advocated for efforts to increase the minimum wage and have been a fierce fighter in Springfield fighting for a fair budget that puts working families first .
I am currently the Director of Programs at the Illinois Coalition for Immigrant and Refugee Rights ( ICIRR @ @ @ @ @ @ @ organizations across the state of Illinois to address barriers to citizenship as well as language access primarily for immigrants and refugees .
Prior to my current role at ICIRR , I worked at Instituto Del Progreso Latino as an accredited representative with a focus on citizenship and the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals program , and was able to assist over 400 people in their immigration journey .
I , myself , became a naturalized U.S. citizen in April 2016 .
Please list three concerns that are specific to your district , such @ @ @ @ @ @ @ or a state policy related to an important local issue that should be revised .
As a representative , I commit to be a champion for working families .
As I ’ ve shared with residents in the 85th district , there are several issues that I would like to take on .
Three priorities in our district are : Property Tax Relief- Our state has faced difficult times , especially during our budget impasse crises .
High property taxes is a growing concern to residents of our community .
We need to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ taxes as the primary source of funding for our education system .
We can do this by reforming Illinois ’ tax system by implementing a graduated income tax .
Working families can not and should not bear the majority of our tax burden at the state level and it is imperative that we find solutions that allow for our state to function efficiently while providing needed services , which include human services , quality infrastructure , public safety , and education .
Healthcare Access - Healthcare is a human right and a matter @ @ @ @ @ @ @ We can not live in a society where families are going bankrupt or have to choose between basic needs or paying their healthcare bills .
My own family has gone through those hardships and I am committed to being a strong advocate for affordable healthcare .
My commitment to our communities includes assuring that our families have access to quality medical care , affordable medication and the continuing fight for reproductive rights .
Investment in education - A key priority in our district is education .
Investments in education means that our state @ @ @ @ @ @ @ our public school system , community colleges , universities , vocational and trade schools .
Demand for skilled workers in Illinois is strong yet the number of people who have completed vocational or trade school training has decreased .
This is a significant issue as a diverse workforce will make our state stronger .
What are your other top legislative priorities ?
Water systems and overall infrastructure- Water is an invaluable resource .
Currently , Illinois has made it easier for private companies to buy municipal water systems which tend to result in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
This has had an impact on multiple communities in the 85th district .
During COVID-19 , many residents have found it hard to pay their increasing bills .
If elected to office , I commit to find solutions that improve our water service infrastructure by investing in projects that will provide us an opportunity to create jobs that will employ our communities and will help with our economic development and deter the privatization of these systems .
Protecting our environment - We are facing an environmental crisis worldwide and it is our @ @ @ @ @ @ @ level we can work on policies to invest in clean infrastructure and expand energy efficiency efforts .
We need to build a sustainable future for our district and our families .
What is your position on Gov .
J.B. Pritzker ’ s proposed graduated income tax ?
Please explain .
I support a graduated income tax .
Illinois has one of the highest property tax burdens in the nation primarily due to our overall regressive tax structure .
Income inequality has continued to grow and we can no longer continue to have our @ @ @ @ @ @ @ burden of our current tax system .
We need a fair tax where higher rates apply to higher incomes and lower rates are applied to lower income levels .
It is time for Illinois to join the thirty-four of the fifty states in our nation that have a graduated income tax .
Illinois continues to struggle financially , with a backlog of unpaid bills .
In addition to a progressive state income tax — or in lieu of such a tax — what should the state do to pay its bills , meet @ @ @ @ @ @ @ such as higher education ?
Fixing our state ’ s budget problems require long term solutions .
We need to work on pension reform legislation , taxing of high-end services as well as closing corporate loopholes .
What we can not afford to do is have our much needed human services and education budgets to bear the brunt of spending cuts as they are essential .
Should Illinois consider taxing the retirement incomes of its very wealthiest residents , as most states do ?
And your argument is ?
Yes , however I @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and middle class retirees who are on a fixed income .
We need to consider taxing the retirement of our very wealthiest simply because they can afford to pay it while a working senior that can not afford to retire , for example , would still be getting taxed on their earnings .
Illinois is one of the few states that does not tax the retirement income of high earners and this is our state ’ s most expensive exemption .
What can Illinois do to improve its elementary and high schools ?
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ to have a multi-pronged approach .
It is a mix of adequate funding , proper staffing and parental support .
We need to continue to support Evidence Based Funding ( EBF ) .
The Center for Tax and Budget Accountability has conducted studies that show that EBF has begun to reverse inequality in public education funding .
We need to invest in our teachers by increasing the opportunities for professional development , this will enhance their skills and increase teacher retention .
We also need to rethink our discipline policies and encourage children @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ending zero-tolerance policies that result in suspensions and expulsion as students are more likely to drop out .
Mass shootings and gun violence plague America .
What can or should the Legislature do , if anything , to address this problem in Illinois ?
Gun violence does not have a simple solution .
We need to advocate for common-sense gun safety measures that will help keep guns out of the hands of people who should not have them while fostering responsible gun ownership .
Measures including background checks for all gun sales , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ keeping guns aways from domestic abusers , funding research into the gun violence crisis and treating it as a public health issue are all part of the solution .
We must also fund violence prevention measures such as mental health and trauma informed services along with jobs programs and other resources to provide support for people who need assistance long before they turn to violence out of desperation .
Do you favor or oppose term limits for any elected official in Illinois ?
Please explain .
I believe that term limits are already @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The voters should decide who they want in office to represent them .
However , leadership positions in the General Assembly should have specific term limits as the voters do not choose those specific positions .
Everybody says gerrymandering is bad , but the party in power in every state — Democrats in Illinois — resist doing anything about it .
Or do we have that wrong ?
What should be done ?
Voters should pick who represents them , rather than politicians picking their voters .
Districts should be drawn in a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is imperative that transparency and an equity centered approach is used in the process .
If elected , I would work hard to collaborate with my colleagues in the Black , Latino and Asian caucuses to try to unite all of us around a principle that representation matters , and that redistricting should benefit everyone equitably .
The U.S. attorney ’ s office in Chicago is investigating possible official corruption by state and local officials .
This prompted the Legislature to pass an ethics reform measure to amend the Lobbyist Registration Act ( @ @ @ @ @ @ @ into law in December .
What ’ s your take on this and what more should be done ?
I am in support of laws that continue to increase transparency and public trust in government .
Furthermore , I believe that we need to work on legislation that restricts state legislators from lobbying other governments on behalf of private clients .
I am in support of laws that prohibit members of the General Assembly to work as lobbyists for a specific amount of time after serving their terms .
When people use the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ data about us .
Oftentimes , the information is sold to other companies , which can use it to track our movements or invade our privacy in other ways .
When companies share this data , we also face a greater risk of identity theft .
What should the Legislature do , if anything ?
No one ’ s data should be shared unless there is explicit and clear consent by the person .
Consumer protections need to be further strengthened and we can not allow companies to use jargon that confuses consumers @ @ @ @ @ @ @ understand or that compromises their right to privacy .
Companies who breach the public ’ s trust by selling data that a person has not explicitly authorized need to be held accountable by imposing penalties for when a data breach happens .
The number of Illinois public high school graduates who enroll in out-of-state universities continues to climb .
What can Illinois do to make its state universities more attractive to Illinois high school students ?
Quality education is one of my priorities and when I ’ ve talked to constituents , the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ topic of conversation .
We need to make our state universities more attractive to Illinois high schools students by adequately funding our higher education system and increasing MAP grants .
As a current graduate school student who waited 8 years to be able to go back to school and whose main deterrent was affordability , I understand that higher education needs to be accessible for all .
What is your top legislative priority with respect to the environment ?
Working towards a path that sets Illinois on track towards 100 % renewable energy @ @ @ @ @ @ @ legislation that promotes clean energy jobs , a divestment on fossil fuels , a ban of fracking on public lands and clean and efficient transportation for our communities .
What historical figure from Illinois , other than Abraham Lincoln ( because everybody ’ s big on Abe ) , do you most admire or draw inspiration from ?
Please explain .
Jane Addams .
I first learned of Jane Addams in my high school history class .
I continued to learn about her through my work , particularly in the immigrant rights movement @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Addams Hull House for an event to launch the first ever deportation defense hotline - a project I participated in and helped build from the ground up .
I felt a sense of humbleness as well as responsibility to continue the work of great female leaders like her .
Her teachings and commitment to improving the quality of life of our communities continue to guide my work .
I can credit her as an inspiration to have made the choice to pursue a Master ’ s in Urban Planning and Policy .
What @ @ @ @ @ @ @ or web-based show of all time .
Why ?
Game of Thrones !
I did not watch the show until it was on its 5th season .
My sister encouraged me to give it a chance .
I was hooked the moment Daenerys said “ I ’ m not going to stop the wheel .
I ’ m going to break the wheel.
” Many sleepless nights later I had caught up to the Season 5 finale and watched the subsequent seasons religiously .
I think in retrospect as I thought about this @ @ @ @ @ @ @ think about how this show had many of us questioning our assumptions about who should lead , and what leadership should look like .
Running for office has definitely made me look at GOT in a different perspective .

Candidate profile
Dagmara “Dee” Avelar
Running for: Illinois House of Representatives - 85th District
Political party affiliation: Democratic Party
Political/civic background: Community Organizer and Human Services administrator. Member of the DuPage Township Democrats, the Will County Democrats and the Illinois Democratic Women of Will. Board member for the Southwest Suburban Immigrant Project.
Occupation: Director of Programs at the Illinois Coalition for Immigrant and Refugee Rights.
Education:
BA in Justice Studies with minor in Political Science, Northeastern Illinois University.
Master’s in Urban Planning and Policy Candidate at the University of Illinois in Chicago.
Campaign website: votedee85th.com
Facebook: @deeforIL85
Twitter: @deeforIL85
Instagram: @deeforIL85
Election Guide - Full Guide 2020 Election Voting Guide This article is part of our Illinois 2020 election voting guide. Click here to see more.
The Chicago Sun-Times Editorial Board sent nominees for the Illinois House of Representatives a list of questions to find out their views on a range of important issues facing the state of Illinois and their districts. Dagmara “Dee” Avelar submitted the following responses:
The COVID-19 pandemic has hammered the finances of Illinois. The state is staring at a $6.2 billion budget shortfall in this fiscal year. What should be done? Please be specific.
The pandemic has exposed the many inequities and lack of social infrastructure to respond adequately to the needs of Illinoisans. If elected, I will be dedicated to ensure we make great progress towards addressing the state’s fiscal challenges by ensuring that we generate a foundation of revenue that will not only address the shortfall, but also build our state’s capacity to provide everyone with the ability to thrive and not just survive. The time is long overdue for the wealthy and big corporations to pay their fair share of taxes. They can easily do more to lift everyone up collectively while still continuing to live luxurious lifestyles. Today, the wealthy are able to pay top dollar to exploit the many loopholes in the tax code, while the rest of us pick up the tab as we live pay-check to pay-check. It’s not fair, and it’s not economically sound as the pandemic has revealed how vulnerable this flawed system leaves us all.
One important step that all voters can take to reform our unfair tax system is to vote to pass the FAIR TAX to help balance the budget. Our low and middle class families and individuals can no longer bear the brunt of our unfair tax burden.
What grade — “A” to “F” — would you give Gov. J.B. Pritzker for his handling of the coronavirus pandemic? Please explain. What, if anything, should he have done differently?
I would grade Governor Pritzker with an “A” for his leadership and making it clear that the state of Illinois believes in science. Illinois leadership has allowed health experts, such as Dr. Ezeke, to lead and provide daily press conferences and move the state from a full quarantine to Phase IV of the reopening plan. I commend the administration on its ability to prioritize the health of our communities by listening to local counties to divide regions and make decision making local to keep coronavirus cases down. We must remain vigilant and continue to promote the use of masks, hand washing and free and accessible testing and treatment to all. The state plays a key role in promoting these critical practices, and the Pritzker administration has shown an unwavering commitment to doing so.
In the wake of the death of George Floyd in Minneapolis, legislatures in some states have taken up the issue of police reform. Should Illinois do the same? If so, what would that look like?
Yes. We need to restore trust in law enforcement and in order to do so we need to talk about police reform and put laws in place that will make sure that ALL Illinoisians are able to walk freely in our communities without the fear of being killed because of the color of our skin. Police reform should include mandatory training on implicit bias and the elimination of no-knock warrants, so that tragic incidents like the death of Breonna Taylor never happen in Illinois. Furthermore, I will support legislation that requires law enforcement officials to intervene when another officer is breaking the law or acting in bad faith. But we cannot stop there. We must also recognize that police are overburdened. We must re-imagine what it means to serve and protect all our residents by ensuring that we are investing in solutions that address root causes of poverty and crime. Therefore, we must critically examine our budget to ensure that we are making equitable investments in our district and state’s schools, mental health programs, addiction treatment centers, jobs programs and other community resources that will create the long-term conditions that result in safe communities for all.
I want to make it clear that police reform legislation is not to be confused with being anti-police. It is about increasing trust in our public servants and protecting one another while we reimagine the potential that we have as a state to move forward with justice as our beacon.
Should the Legislature pass a law requiring all law enforcement officers to wear body cameras? Why or why not?
Yes. It is impossible to negate the need for legislation that tackles accountability and transparency in law enforcement. Requiring body cameras for all law enforcement officers is a step in the right direction toward building trust among our communities.
Federal prosecutors have revealed a comprehensive scheme of bribery, ghost jobs and favoritism in subcontracting by ComEd to influence the actions of House Speaker Michael Madigan. Who’s to blame? What ethics reforms should follow? Should Madigan resign?
This series of unacceptable behavior has made one thing clear: we need campaign finance reform. As public servants, we need to do everything in our power to limit the influence of corporate money in politics. The cards are often stacked against everyday people like myself, discouraging us from running for office largely due to money in politics.
Please tell us about your civic work in the last two years, whether it’s legislation you have sponsored or work you have done in other ways to improve your community.
For over a decade, I have dedicated my life to advocating for working families particularly focusing on projects addressing the barriers of low-income, limited English proficient Illinois residents. A community organizer at heart, I have been involved in civic engagement efforts to get out the vote of low-propensity voters in the southwest suburbs since I was in college. I have also advocated for efforts to increase the minimum wage and have been a fierce fighter in Springfield fighting for a fair budget that puts working families first.
I am currently the Director of Programs at the Illinois Coalition for Immigrant and Refugee Rights (ICIRR) and work directly with 59 community-based organizations across the state of Illinois to address barriers to citizenship as well as language access primarily for immigrants and refugees. Prior to my current role at ICIRR, I worked at Instituto Del Progreso Latino as an accredited representative with a focus on citizenship and the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals program, and was able to assist over 400 people in their immigration journey. I, myself, became a naturalized U.S. citizen in April 2016.
Please list three concerns that are specific to your district, such as a project that should be undertaken or a state policy related to an important local issue that should be revised.
As a representative, I commit to be a champion for working families. As I’ve shared with residents in the 85th district, there are several issues that I would like to take on. Three priorities in our district are:
Property Tax Relief- Our state has faced difficult times, especially during our budget impasse crises. High property taxes is a growing concern to residents of our community. We need to work on decreasing our dependence on property taxes as the primary source of funding for our education system. We can do this by reforming Illinois’ tax system by implementing a graduated income tax. Working families cannot and should not bear the majority of our tax burden at the state level and it is imperative that we find solutions that allow for our state to function efficiently while providing needed services, which include human services, quality infrastructure, public safety, and education.
Healthcare Access - Healthcare is a human right and a matter of life or death for many. We cannot live in a society where families are going bankrupt or have to choose between basic needs or paying their healthcare bills. My own family has gone through those hardships and I am committed to being a strong advocate for affordable healthcare. My commitment to our communities includes assuring that our families have access to quality medical care, affordable medication and the continuing fight for reproductive rights.
Investment in education - A key priority in our district is education. Investments in education means that our state continues to make concerted efforts in supporting our public school system, community colleges, universities, vocational and trade schools. Demand for skilled workers in Illinois is strong yet the number of people who have completed vocational or trade school training has decreased. This is a significant issue as a diverse workforce will make our state stronger.
What are your other top legislative priorities?
Water systems and overall infrastructure- Water is an invaluable resource. Currently, Illinois has made it easier for private companies to buy municipal water systems which tend to result in an increase of water rates to residents. This has had an impact on multiple communities in the 85th district. During COVID-19, many residents have found it hard to pay their increasing bills. If elected to office, I commit to find solutions that improve our water service infrastructure by investing in projects that will provide us an opportunity to create jobs that will employ our communities and will help with our economic development and deter the privatization of these systems.
Protecting our environment - We are facing an environmental crisis worldwide and it is our responsibility to act. At the state level we can work on policies to invest in clean infrastructure and expand energy efficiency efforts. We need to build a sustainable future for our district and our families.
What is your position on Gov. J.B. Pritzker’s proposed graduated income tax? Please explain.
I support a graduated income tax. Illinois has one of the highest property tax burdens in the nation primarily due to our overall regressive tax structure. Income inequality has continued to grow and we can no longer continue to have our working and middle class families carry the burden of our current tax system. We need a fair tax where higher rates apply to higher incomes and lower rates are applied to lower income levels. It is time for Illinois to join the thirty-four of the fifty states in our nation that have a graduated income tax.
Illinois continues to struggle financially, with a backlog of unpaid bills. In addition to a progressive state income tax — or in lieu of such a tax — what should the state do to pay its bills, meet its pension obligations and fund core services such as higher education?
Fixing our state’s budget problems require long term solutions. We need to work on pension reform legislation, taxing of high-end services as well as closing corporate loopholes. What we cannot afford to do is have our much needed human services and education budgets to bear the brunt of spending cuts as they are essential.
Should Illinois consider taxing the retirement incomes of its very wealthiest residents, as most states do? And your argument is?
Yes, however I strongly oppose any tax increases on low and middle class retirees who are on a fixed income. We need to consider taxing the retirement of our very wealthiest simply because they can afford to pay it while a working senior that can not afford to retire, for example, would still be getting taxed on their earnings. Illinois is one of the few states that does not tax the retirement income of high earners and this is our state’s most expensive exemption.
What can Illinois do to improve its elementary and high schools?
Improving our elementary and high schools need to have a multi-pronged approach. It is a mix of adequate funding, proper staffing and parental support. We need to continue to support Evidence Based Funding (EBF). The Center for Tax and Budget Accountability has conducted studies that show that EBF has begun to reverse inequality in public education funding.
We need to invest in our teachers by increasing the opportunities for professional development, this will enhance their skills and increase teacher retention. We also need to rethink our discipline policies and encourage children to stay in school. This means ending zero-tolerance policies that result in suspensions and expulsion as students are more likely to drop out.
Mass shootings and gun violence plague America. What can or should the Legislature do, if anything, to address this problem in Illinois?
Gun violence does not have a simple solution. We need to advocate for common-sense gun safety measures that will help keep guns out of the hands of people who should not have them while fostering responsible gun ownership. Measures including background checks for all gun sales, background checks for gun license renewal, keeping guns aways from domestic abusers, funding research into the gun violence crisis and treating it as a public health issue are all part of the solution. We must also fund violence prevention measures such as mental health and trauma informed services along with jobs programs and other resources to provide support for people who need assistance long before they turn to violence out of desperation.
Do you favor or oppose term limits for any elected official in Illinois? Please explain.
I believe that term limits are already in place through our electoral process. The voters should decide who they want in office to represent them. However, leadership positions in the General Assembly should have specific term limits as the voters do not choose those specific positions.
Everybody says gerrymandering is bad, but the party in power in every state — Democrats in Illinois — resist doing anything about it. Or do we have that wrong? What should be done?
Voters should pick who represents them, rather than politicians picking their voters. Districts should be drawn in a way that promotes equal representation. It is imperative that transparency and an equity centered approach is used in the process. If elected, I would work hard to collaborate with my colleagues in the Black, Latino and Asian caucuses to try to unite all of us around a principle that representation matters, and that redistricting should benefit everyone equitably.
The U.S. attorney’s office in Chicago is investigating possible official corruption by state and local officials. This prompted the Legislature to pass an ethics reform measure to amend the Lobbyist Registration Act (SB 1639). It was signed into law in December. What’s your take on this and what more should be done?
I am in support of laws that continue to increase transparency and public trust in government. Furthermore, I believe that we need to work on legislation that restricts state legislators from lobbying other governments on behalf of private clients. I am in support of laws that prohibit members of the General Assembly to work as lobbyists for a specific amount of time after serving their terms.
When people use the internet and wireless devices, companies collect data about us. Oftentimes, the information is sold to other companies, which can use it to track our movements or invade our privacy in other ways. When companies share this data, we also face a greater risk of identity theft. What should the Legislature do, if anything?
No one’s data should be shared unless there is explicit and clear consent by the person. Consumer protections need to be further strengthened and we cannot allow companies to use jargon that confuses consumers into signing agreements that they do not understand or that compromises their right to privacy.
Companies who breach the public’s trust by selling data that a person has not explicitly authorized need to be held accountable by imposing penalties for when a data breach happens.
The number of Illinois public high school graduates who enroll in out-of-state universities continues to climb. What can Illinois do to make its state universities more attractive to Illinois high school students?
Quality education is one of my priorities and when I’ve talked to constituents, the affordability of higher education is always a topic of conversation. We need to make our state universities more attractive to Illinois high schools students by adequately funding our higher education system and increasing MAP grants. As a current graduate school student who waited 8 years to be able to go back to school and whose main deterrent was affordability, I understand that higher education needs to be accessible for all.
What is your top legislative priority with respect to the environment?
Working towards a path that sets Illinois on track towards 100% renewable energy by 2050. This includes working on legislation that promotes clean energy jobs, a divestment on fossil fuels, a ban of fracking on public lands and clean and efficient transportation for our communities.
What historical figure from Illinois, other than Abraham Lincoln (because everybody’s big on Abe), do you most admire or draw inspiration from? Please explain.
Jane Addams. I first learned of Jane Addams in my high school history class. I continued to learn about her through my work, particularly in the immigrant rights movement. I remember going to the Jane Addams Hull House for an event to launch the first ever deportation defense hotline - a project I participated in and helped build from the ground up. I felt a sense of humbleness as well as responsibility to continue the work of great female leaders like her. Her teachings and commitment to improving the quality of life of our communities continue to guide my work. I can credit her as an inspiration to have made the choice to pursue a Master’s in Urban Planning and Policy.
What’s your favorite TV, streaming or web-based show of all time. Why?
Game of Thrones! I did not watch the show until it was on its 5th season. My sister encouraged me to give it a chance. I was hooked the moment Daenerys said “I’m not going to stop the wheel. I’m going to break the wheel.” Many sleepless nights later I had caught up to the Season 5 finale and watched the subsequent seasons religiously. I think in retrospect as I thought about this question, I could not help but think about how this show had many of us questioning our assumptions about who should lead, and what leadership should look like. Running for office has definitely made me look at GOT in a different perspective.