Edgar Fellows Class of 2024 unveiled
Monday, Jul 22, 2024 - Posted by Rich Miller
* The Edgar Fellows Program may be the most unusual private group of folks in the country. A JPMorgan Chase VP and a Chicago Teachers Union staffer (Graciela Guzman, who won a Senate Democratic primary) were both selected this year, for example. The Mayor of Mt. Carmel (in southeastern Illinois) and a Black trans member of the MWRD are new fellows. It’s almost like the legislature, minus the hardcore far right…
In a highly competitive process, forty-one public policy leaders from across Illinois have been selected for the 2024 class of the Edgar Fellows Program. The group will meet for the first time at their Executive Leadership Training Program held August 4 through 8 on the University of Illinois (UI) campus in Urbana-Champaign.
Established in 2012, the Edgar Fellows Program is a leadership initiative designed by former Illinois Gov. Jim Edgar to inspire respectful collaboration in addressing the state’s major challenges. The Fellows selected for the class of 2024 reflect Illinois’ political, racial, ethnic, and geographic diversity. They include elected and appointed officials from all levels of government; leaders of non-profit and labor organizations; and individuals who are influencing public policy in the business world.
“Each year, the Edgar Fellows Program brings together a group of leaders with different backgrounds and different politics from across Illinois,” Gov. Edgar said. “Though they each have their own unique life experiences, they find out that they have more in common than they have that separates them.
“With each class, it has been gratifying to watch people who were strangers on Sunday become good friends by Thursday. It’s what the Edgar Fellows program is all about, finding common ground and respect, so that our Fellows can work together to help shape a better Illinois.”
During their time in Champaign, the new Fellows will engage with experienced public policy practitioners who are experts in issues that include artificial intelligence, the SAFE-T Act, workforce development, climate change, philanthropies, Medicaid, and the state budget. More importantly, they will learn from each other and begin building relationships that will last throughout their careers.
The 2024 class will bring the number of Fellows who are part of the program to nearly 500. After completing the initial training seminar, Fellows continue to meet at alumni gatherings designed to increase their knowledge and help build their professional networks. The next time they will have this opportunity to gather is at the program’s annual fundraiser in Chicago on September 12 at the Hyatt Regency. This event is open to the general public. More information about the dinner, including how to sponsor the event or purchase individual tickets can be found at www.edgarfellows.org.
Donors to the Edgar Fellows Program include individuals, corporations, foundations, labor organizations, and others who are interested in promoting competent, ethical and solution-oriented leadership in Illinois. An advisory board led by Chair Emeritus Alexander Lerner, the Chief Executive Officer of the Illinois State Medical Society, and Chair, Allen Grosboll, former senior policy advisor to Governor Edgar, helps to guide the program. Other board members are Fellows and long-time supporters of the program who, between them, have decades of experience in Illinois public policy.
Administered and funded through the efforts of the Edgar Fellows 501(c)(3) non-profit, the Edgar Fellows Program is housed at the U of I System’s Institute of Government and Public Affairs in Urbana.
The Edgar Fellows Class of 2024 is listed below. Photos are available upon request.
Liandro Arellano, Jr., Dixon, Candidate for Senate, District 37
Kevin Artl, Naperville, President and CEO of the American Council of Engineering Companies of Illinois
Chris Balkema, Channahon, Candidate for Senate, District 53
Yasmeen Bankole, Hanover Park, Trustee of the Village of Hanover Park and Regional Director for U.S. Senator Dick Durbin
Precious Brady-Davis, Chicago, Commissioner, Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Greater Chicago and Chief Strategy Officer at The Center on Halsted
Representative Jason Bunting, Emington
Sydney Corryn Holman, Chicago, Deputy Mayor for Intergovernmental Affairs, City of Chicago
Ryan Croke, Springfield, First Assistant Deputy Governor for health and human services
Christopher Curtis, Mayor of Kankakee
Regan Deering, Decatur, Candidate for State Representative, District 88
Yaacov Delaney, Chicago, Deputy Chief of Staff and Director of Justice Equity & Opportunity Initiative for Lt. Governor Juliana Stratton
James Dillon, Peoria, Peoria County Board Chair and Associate Director of the West Central Building and Construction Trades Council
Isabel Dobbel, Chicago, Political Director for the Chicago Federation of Labor
Representative Laura Faver Dias, Grayslake
Kari Galassi, Hinsdale, DuPage County Board Member
Graciela Guzman, Chicago, candidate for Senate, District 20
Chynna Hampton, Chatham, Equity Director for Climate Jobs Illinois at the Illinois AFL-CIO
Carolin Harvey, Mayor of Carbondale
Jared M. Hawkinson, Knoxville, Knox County Board Chair and Knoxville Police Officer
Latoya Hughes, South Holland, Acting Director, Illinois Department of Corrections
Representative Hoan Huynh, Chicago
Representative Lilian Jimenez, Chicago
Elizabeth Johnston, Normal, McLean County Board Vice Chair and Owner of Johnston Financial Services
Joseph Judge, Mayor of Mt. Carmel
Jennifer Konen, Village President of Sugar Grove
Representative Nicole La Ha, Homer Glen
Eric Lind, Mayor of Eureka
Senator Meg Loughran Cappel, Shorewood
Chase McCall, Gibson City, Ford County Board Member and Government Affairs Coordinator at State Farm
David McEllis, Chicago, Illinois Legislative Director at the Environmental Law and Policy Center of the Midwest
SJ Morrison, Edwardsville, Alderman in Ward 4, Executive Director of the Agency for Community Transit and Managing Director of the Madison County Transit
Representative Kevin Olickal, Skokie
Jordan Powell, Rochester, Senior Vice President of the Illinois Health and Hospital Association
Gerson Ramirez, Chicago, Senior Government Relations Associate at Advance Illinois
Julia Ramirez, Chicago, Alderman, 12th Ward
Erendira Rendon, Chicago, Vice President of The Resurrection Project
Cassaundra Rouse, Flossmoor, Executive Director of the Illinois Tollway
Carolyn Schofield, Crystal Lake, Legislative Assistant to Senator Don DeWitte, former Lt. Governor Candidate and former McHenry County Board Vice Chair
Patrick Schweska, Chicago, Manager of Public Policy for the Midwest Region at Amazon Web Services
Benjamin Taylor, Chicago, Vice President, Public Engagement for the Central Midwest Region at JPMorgan Chase
Representative Travis Weaver, Edwards
…Adding… I’m kinda wondering how Syd Holman is gonna attend that August 4-8 seminar in Champaign so close to the convention.
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* Governor JB Pritzker…
Gov. JB Pritzker Endorses Vice President Kamala Harris for President
Today, Governor JB Pritzker released the following statement endorsing Vice President Kamala Harris for President of the United States:
“I am proud to endorse Vice President Kamala Harris for President of the United States.
“Since I launched my first campaign for Governor in 2017, I have made it clear in virtually every political speech and statement the absolute necessity of beating Donald Trump at the ballot box. Donald Trump is a convicted felon, liable for sexual assault, and a congenital liar. He is a man wholly unfit for the office of the presidency both in character and temperament. We must defeat him and his MAGA allies at every level this November.
“When I spoke to Vice President Harris, I told her that President Biden’s selfless decision came as a genuine surprise. I have worked hard during my time as Governor of Illinois to try and bring a sober and mature approach to decision-making. It’s important to be thoughtful about what’s next for the Democratic Party and for the country, which is why I spent hours yesterday talking to fellow leaders in our Party getting and giving input about the road to victory in November. I am also cognizant of the unique role we play here in Illinois as hosts of the Democratic National Convention.
“Vice President Harris has proven, at every point in her career, that she possesses the skills, strength, and character to lead this country and the vision to better the lives of all Americans From protecting women’s rights to defending American workers and strengthening the middle class, Vice President Harris is a champion of the American values we hold dear. She represents our Party’s best chance to defeat Donald Trump in November, and I will work my heart out to help her do that.
“Before I was elected Governor of Illinois I served in leadership roles for Hillary Clinton’s presidential campaigns. I worked hard for Hillary Clinton because I thought she would be an incredibly qualified and capable President. I also felt it was important that this country finally elect a woman to the highest office in the land. I am endorsing Kamala Harris for President and will work hard to get her elected because I believe that she is the most qualified and capable person to be President. I also think it’s past time we shatter that highest and hardest of glass ceilings and finally elect a woman as President of the United States.”
…Adding… The Democratic Party of Illinois…
Democratic Party of Illinois Chair Lisa Hernandez issued the following statement in support of our next president, Kamala Harris:
“The Democratic Party stands united in our belief that Vice President Kamala Harris is uniquely qualified to lead our nation forward. Vice President Harris has demonstrated unwavering dedication, resilience, and leadership throughout her distinguished career. From her tenure as the Attorney General of California to her service as our Vice President, Kamala Harris has consistently fought for justice, equality, and the rights of all Americans.
The Democratic Party of Illinois is fully committed to mobilizing our communities in support of Kamala Harris. We recognize the historic significance of her candidacy and profound impact her leadership will have on our state and our country.
Vice President Harris’ platform reflects the values and priorities of Illinoisans, including expanding access to quality healthcare, protecting reproductive rights, addressing climate change, and ensuring economic justice for all.
Vice President Harris stands as our best chance to defeat Donald Trump and J.D. Vance. Their radical agenda threatens to dismantle the progress we’ve made. We cannot allow their divisive and regressive agenda to prevail. We must protect our democracy, defend our rights, and uphold our Democratic values. As we move forward, the Democratic Party of Illinois is dedicated to working tirelessly to ensure Kamala Harris’ victory in November.”
* US Rep. Eric Sorensen…
With so much at stake between now and November 5th, we need a Democratic Presidential nominee who will lead with passion, empathy, and fire. Vice President Kamala Harris is that person. When we make our decision, we will vote for the leader who will take our country into her second 250 years.
Vice President Harris has the vision and the strength to do the most important work for the people.
Let’s go!
* Lt. Governor Juliana Stratton…
I am proud to endorse Vice President Kamala Harris as the next President of the United States.
She is highly qualified, smart as hell and the best candidate to beat Donald Trump. Kamala Harris has been at the forefront of the fight for reproductive freedom, including prioritizing the crisis in Black women’s maternal healthcare. She has been a protector of the middle class and working families across the nation.
MAGA extremists wholeheartedly believe that a woman’s place is in the house. But as a champion for women, I join millions of others across our nation who know that a woman’s place is in the White House, serving in the highest office in our land.
Dr. Mae Jemison, the first Black woman to travel into space, said these words: “Never be limited by other people’s limited imaginations.”
Today, I am dreaming of the future I want my daughters to inherit. Kamala Harris is the best person to take us there.
Let’s get work!
* Senator Dick Durbin…
Proud to endorse my former Senate colleague & good friend, Kamala Harris. Our nation needs to continue moving forward with unity & not MAGA chaos. VP Harris was a critical partner in building the Biden record over the past four years. Count me in with Kamala Harris for President.
* Senator Tammy Duckworth…
* CNN…
Illinois Rep. Raja Krishnamoorthi pledged his support to Harris “through this process” however, he said, he’s “open to whatever process the DNC has.”
* US Rep. Raja Krishnamoorthi…
* Lee Enterprise reporter Brenden Moore…
* Illinois House Speaker Chris Welch…
Throughout our history, strong women have built movements that united us, inspired change when we needed it most and called on our nation to continually pursue a truer vision of our founding principles. Kamala Harris has stepped up to continue this work, and I am so proud to offer her my full support. Democrats see the challenges our country faces, and we choose Kamala Harris to lead us forward. We choose Kamala Harris because we know that someone who has dedicated her career to justice is the right choice to stand up to a man who believes the law does not apply to him. We choose Kamala Harris because a champion for women and families is the right choice to hold the architect of the Dobbs decision accountable. We choose Kamala Harris because someone who embodies the power of unity is the right choice to defeat a demagogue who divides people to pursue his own power. When Democrats nationwide gather next month in Chicago, I will join Black House Speakers from Maine, Michigan, Maryland, New York, and Virginia for a celebration of diversity and unity that we call Black Excellence in Bleu.
There is no greater celebration of Black excellence than nominating Kamala Harris to lead our party forward. This November, we choose unity. We choose democracy, justice, and the rule of law. We choose women’s rights, voting rights, and civil rights.
And that is why we choose Kamala Harris to serve as President of the United States.
* Illinois Federation of Teachers…
Illinois Federation of Teachers (IFT) President Dan Montgomery issued the following statement after President Joe Biden announced that he is not seeking reelection and is endorsing Vice President Kamala Harris:
“This is an historic moment. As we navigate this critical juncture, we are proud to express our enthusiastic support for Vice President Kamala Harris’s candidacy. Our members are mobilized and eager to work tirelessly to secure her election — a critical step toward defending reproductive health, strengthening public education, improving healthcare access, and fostering an economy that uplifts the middle class.
“Vice President Harris’ vision is a blueprint for a future that champions inclusivity and prosperity for every American. Her vision not only seeks to protect our nation’s cherished values, but actively enhances them by paving the way for every individual to thrive and reach their fullest potential.
“We extend our profound gratitude to President Joe Biden for his unwavering dedication to the American people. He made significant achievements during his tenure, including transformative infrastructure projects, substantial investments in public education, and pivotal healthcare reforms. His leadership has not only revitalized these crucial sectors, but also restored dignity to the office of the President and preserved our democracy.
“As we look ahead with tremendous excitement and hope, let us remain united. The stakes have never been higher, as we continue to fight for the preservation of our human rights and the very fabric of our democracy. Together, we stand ready to support Kamala in creating a future that reflects the highest ideals and aspirations for every individual.”
* Comptroller Susana Mendoza…
This is going to be one massively energized Democratic National Convention! Can’t wait to enthusiastically cast my vote as a delegate for our first woman president, Kamala Harris! She will fire up the ticket and make next month’s convention in Chicago a unified launch to win this critical election! She brings a wealth of experience to the table as a former Senator, Attorney General and as Vice-President over the last 3½ years, making her ready to be a great president on Day 1. We’re all ready and excited to support her.
…Adding… Senate President Harmon…
Illinois Senate President Don Harmon endorsed Vice President Kamala Harris for President today, following the extraordinary leadership shown by President Joseph R. Biden in ending his campaign for president.
“I am enormously proud to endorse Kamala Harris for the Office of President of the United States. In a short few hours after announcing her candidacy, she has energized the Democratic Party with her compelling story and her ability to prosecute the case against Donald Trump’s corrupt, felonious behavior and his plans to cut taxes for billionaires and corporations while raising them on the middle class.
“Over the last three and a half years, we’ve been fortunate to have the leadership of Joe Biden and Kamala Harris to repair the damage inflicted on the nation by Trump. We cannot go back, and I will do everything in my power to help elect Kamala Harris the next President of the United States,” said Harmon.
* Cook County Board President Toni Preckwinkle…
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* Hannah Meisel has a really good tracker of Illinois Democrats who have endorsed Vice President Kamala Harris. Here’s her list as of 7:45 pm…
US Reps. Jonathan Jackson, Robin Kelly, Delia Ramirez, Chuy García,
Sean Casten, Danny Davis, Jan Schakowsky, Brad Schneider, Bill Foster, Mike Quigley and Nikki Budzinski, plus Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson
Hannah links to every statement, so again click here.
* Gov. JB Pritzker has not yet taken a position. However, California Gov. Gavin Newsom, Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro, New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy, Colorado Gov. Jared Polis and NC Gov. Roy Cooper have already endorsed Harris. Maryland Gov. Wes Moore will apparently endorse her Monday.
* US Rep. Eric Sorensen, who called on Biden to step aside, has not yet endorsed anyone.
* Neither US Senator from Illinois has yet endorsed Harris.
* State Sen. Dave Koehler (D-Peoria) reached out to tell me he is backing Harris.
…Adding… Reuters…
All 50 Democratic party state chairs have thrown their weight behind Vice President Kamala Harris to be the party’s new presidential nominee, according to sources familiar with the matter. [See update below.]
…Adding… Illinois AG Kwame Raoul has endorsed VP Harris…
…Adding… That Reuters story above is incorrect. Democratic Party of Illinois Chair Lisa Hernandez just told me that she abstained.
I asked why. Still waiting on a response. But the governor hasn’t endorsed Harris either and he backed Hernandez for chair.
…Adding… Crain’s…
Soon after, the Democratic Party of Illinois emailed delegates with a statement issued by State Rep. Lisa Hernandez, a Pritzker ally who chairs the state party and secured the position with his backing, to “use as messaging guidance.”
“Our recommendation is that you hold tight and outside of thanking Biden for his service, you hold back from reacting publicly at this time,” the email said. “If needed, please refer to our statement.”
…Adding… Widespread rumors that Gov. Pritzker will make a statement tomorrow. “Tomorrow morning will be less than 24 hours, and it is perfectly acceptable for everyone to take a beat,” says a top Pritzker insider.
…Adding… Tribune…
State Rep. La Shawn Ford, a convention delegate from Chicago’s West Side, said he believed Harris was in the best position to give Trump “the greatest challenge in such a short time.” He also said he wanted to see Pritzker as her running mate. […]
State Rep. Theresa Mah, another convention delegate from Chicago, pointed to a statement from the Asian American Caucus, a group of elected officials from different levels of government in the state that she belongs to, and its endorsement of Harris, saying it’s “time to rally together” to “elect our first Black, Asian and woman President!”
Another delegate, former Democratic state Sen. Jacqueline Collins, of Chicago’s South Side, also said she supports Harris to be president since she’s spent the last three and a half years in the executive branch and has the “intellect and the stamina” to bring in younger voters and is “the best advocate and spokesperson” on abortion rights.
“Speaking as not only a delegate but as a Black woman, I feel that she’s deserved the opportunity to take on the Trumpsters,” Collins said. “But I believe that as many know by now that Black women, really, they are the foundation of the Democratic party, and I think it’s going to energize a whole segment of individuals, Democrats who might have felt that they were going to sit it out.”
The Asian American Caucus’ members list is here.
…Adding… No mention of Harris in State Rep. Anna Moeller’s statement…
President Biden has once again proven what true leadership is. His decision to step down from the presidential race exemplifies his profound commitment to the well-being of the nation. This cannot have been an easy decision for anyone. But he did what he knew was best for the people of this great country. This pivotal moment is a testament to President Biden’s dedication to democratic principles and the greater good, and it fills me with hope and optimism for the future.
His selfless act paves the way for fresh leadership and new ideas, ensuring that the party remains dynamic and responsive to the evolving needs of the American people. This is an exciting time for our country as we pick a leader that can inspire; a leader who can unite; a leader who believes in the rule of law; and a leader that upholds a more inclusive, equitable, and forward-thinking America. I am truly energized as we go into the next few weeks. Our nominee will be the option our country needs as we choose between civility and, of course, the unthinkable. Our future is bright.
…Adding… Sun-Times…
It’s noteworthy that Pritzker, Democratic leaders overseeing the Illinois General Assembly and the state Democratic Party did not jump on the Harris bandwagon in their statements. […]
Illinois House Speaker Emanuel “Chris” Welch, D-Hillside, and Illinois Senate President Don Harmon, D-Oak Park, were in lockstep with the Harris omission, instead focusing on Biden’s leadership and selflessness.
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* We’ll discuss tomorrow…
* Update…
…Adding… Pritzker…
Chicago, IL –– Following President Biden’s announcement, Governor JB Pritzker has released the following statement:
“President Joe Biden has dedicated his life in service to this nation, and its citizens are all the better for it. His is a storied political career culminating in one of the most accomplished and effective presidencies of our lifetime. As President of the United States he led us through a recovery from a devastating pandemic and shepherded our economy away from a recession to prosperity. He worked across the aisle to pass some of the most consequential legislation in decades to rebuild our roads and bridges while investing in the infrastructure and jobs of the 21st century. Perhaps most consequentially, President Biden restored dignity to the Oval Office, bringing the statesmanship and honor that have been the hallmarks of his years of service, back to the White House.
“As we extend our gratitude to President Biden and reflect on his many accomplishments, we must not ignore the threat posed by Donald Trump’s potential return to the White House. Donald Trump is a 34 time convicted felon, adjudicated to have committed sexual assault, a racist, homophobe and misogynist. Trump brags about taking away a woman’s right to choose, wants to rip healthcare away from tens of millions of people, proposes economic policies that will cost the middle class thousands of dollars a year, and threatens the fundamental American ideals we hold dear. I will work every day to ensure that he does not win in November.”
* Senate President Harmon…
Illinois Senate President Don Harmon of Oak Park released the following statement in reaction to the news today that President Biden ended his campaign for President of the United States:
“I commend President Joseph R. Biden for his tremendous courage today and service to our nation. I’m reminded of another great president, John F. Kennedy, who said, “In the long history of the world, only a few generations have been granted the role of defending freedom in its hour of maximum danger.” Like President Kennedy, Joe Biden did not shrink from this responsibility as he made a difficult decision today to pass the torch to the next generation.
“His presidency will go down in American history as one of our most consequential. His legacy of service to our nation, and specifically to the people of Delaware, is secure. His leadership, faith, and bravery in this moment will live in the memories of the American people for all time because the choice before the American people is now set.
“Joe Biden did today what Donald Trump could not. He put his country first before his own ambition. Voters will have a clear choice in 2024 - Donald Trump, who is only concerned about himself, or a candidate for president who believes in something bigger.”
* Speaker Welch…
President Biden has put our country first time and time again. His commitment to moving forward even amidst adversity and personal loss embodies who we are as Americans. Today, he has put our country first again.
I want to thank President Biden for his selfless leadership, and for again putting our country and our democracy ahead of individual ambition. I look forward to working with my colleagues to help move a united Democratic Party forward to victory in November.
* US Sen. Durbin…
U.S. Senate Majority Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL) today issued the following statement on President Joe Biden:
“Throughout his public career, Joe Biden always put country first. His four years as President made it clear that he was determined to put our country back on track and restore the soul of our nation. America will be forever grateful for all he has given to this country.
“Now the Democratic Party must unite behind a candidate who can defeat Donald Trump and keep America moving in the right direction. I will do everything in my power to help that effort.”
* US Sen. Duckworth…
United States Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) today issued the following statement regarding President Joe Biden:
“No one has done more for working Americans than Joe Biden—and so many of us owe him a debt of gratitude for everything he’s done to improve our country.
“Over more than 50 years in public service, he’s built an unparalleled record of accomplishments. From helping write the Violence Against Women Act in the Senate to shepherding the Affordable Care Act into law as Vice President and from helping guide our nation out of a once-in-a-lifetime pandemic to overseeing historic wage and job growth during his Presidency, Joe Biden has always put our country first and worked to change so many aspects of our lives for the better.
“From the bottom of my heart, I thank him for his effective and successful leadership and for, once again, putting our country before himself. This difficult decision ensures that Democrats can focus on the goal that unites each and every one of us: defeating Donald Trump and preventing another four years of his destructive chaos and corruption.”
* US Rep. Schneider…
Rep. Brad Schneider (IL-10) released the following statement:
“Thank you, President Joe Biden.
Joe Biden has selflessly served our nation with courage, heart and honor. As President, he guided our nation through and out of an unprecedented global pandemic. He passed transformative legislation that has led to our economy becoming the strongest in the world. He lowered costs for families, took on the climate crisis and made our tax code fairer. He rescued our country from a potential despot and restored international confidence in the U.S. as the world’s indispensable nation.
He put our nation and the American people front and center. Our country is better and our future is brighter due to his leadership.
Joe Biden has secured his legacy as one of the greatest presidents in our history. It has been the honor of a lifetime to serve in Congress during his presidency.
Now, we must come together, build on the legacy of the Biden administration and show voters that Democrats up and down the ballot are improving the lives of all Americans. I’m confident that, with Vice President Kamala Harris at the helm of the Democratic ticket, we can do exactly that. We will defeat Donald Trump.
Onward.”
* ILGOP…
Illinois Republican Party Chair Kathy Salvi released the following statement regarding the announcement that President Biden is no longer seeking reelection:
“Today’s announcement is the culmination of years of lies from the Biden White House and Democrats shaming anyone who questioned the fitness of President Biden. Democrats are divided, torn apart by their own duplicity trying to pass off President Biden’s inability to fulfill his role, while Republicans stand united behind President Trump and an agenda of freedom, prosperity, and safety. Democrats have become the party of self-service while Republicans have become the voice of this nation. We as Illinois Republicans must continue to call attention to JB Pritzker’s tax-and-spend, pro-criminal agenda that drives families away from this state to protect the rest of the nation.”
* US Rep. Bost…
U.S. Representative Mike Bost (IL-12) today released the following statement following Joe Biden ending his presidential campaign:
“Republicans in Congress and concerned citizens across America have questioned President Biden’s fitness for office for months,” said Bost. “After dismissing those concerns at every turn, Biden’s allies have now forced him out of the campaign in hopes of salvaging races up and down the ballot. Unfortunately for them, it’s too late. The American people are hungry for change and for real leadership, and you aren’t going to get that from Vice President Harris or any of the other top Democrats who helped create this mess in the first place. President Trump is the clear front runner heading into November, regardless of who the Democrats nominate at their convention.”
…Adding… US Rep. García…
Congressman Jesús “Chuy” García Commends President Biden and Endorses Kamala Harris as Democratic Nominee
President Joe Biden’s selfless decision to not seek re-election and prioritize our country’s future deserves the highest praise. His tenure has been marked by significant achievements, making him the most impactful President since Franklin D. Roosevelt. His leadership has brought historic investments that will benefit generations.
As we move forward, it’s crucial that we unite behind Vice President Kamala Harris and continue the progress we’ve made. Defeating the resurgence of Trumpism is essential for the future of our democracy.
Thank you, President Biden, for your unwavering dedication and service to our nation.
* DPI…
With news of President Biden no longer campaigning for re-election, Democratic Party of Illinois Chair Lisa Hernandez issued the following statement about his legacy:
“Today, we express our deepest gratitude to President Joe Biden for his unwavering service and dedication to our nation. Under his leadership, President Biden navigated some of the most challenging times in recent history–and without failure, he showed us that he is a man of the people. President Biden’s legacy is defined by his empathy, resilience, and steadfast commitment to the American people.
When President Biden took office, our nation was grappling with a devastating once-in-a-century pandemic. His administration successfully guided us through this unprecedented crisis. And during his presidency, President Biden has worked tirelessly to rebuild the backbone of America–a strong and inclusive middle class. His administration has created over 15.5 million jobs, including 459.7k jobs in Illinois in the last 3.5 years. His efforts to lower prescription drug costs and make health care more accessible have provided relief to millions for Americans. These accomplishments will have a lasting impact on our country and will continue to guide as we move forward.
We face a critical moment in our democracy. The stakes could not be higher, and we must stand firm against the threats posed by a potential Trump-Vance presidency. Donald Trump and J.D. Vance represents a return to policies that favor the wealthy, threaten our health care, and undermine our democratic institutions. We must ensure that their regressive and divisive agenda does not prevail.
The Democratic Party of Illinois is committed to this fight. We will mobilize, organize, and vote to ensure that the Democratic ticket prevails in November. Together, we can finish the job and build a stronger, more equitable nation. Thank you, President Biden, for your service and leadership. The work continues, and we are ready to face the challenges ahead with unity and resolve.”
* US Rep. Miller…
Congresswoman Mary Miller (R-IL) released the following statement:
“Kamala Harris led the Democrats’ cover-up of Joe Biden’s severe cognitive decline. Their donors only forced Biden out once they got ‘caught.’ ‘Border Czar’ Kamala Harris must answer for the deadly invasion of our southern border and her cover-up of Biden’s cognitive decline. The American people deserve to know who is actually running the country right now since the Democrats are finally admitting it is not Joe Biden.”
* VP Harris…
* Former President Obama…
* Illinois Democratic County Chairs’ Association…
IDCCA President Mark Guethle released the following statement in response to President Joe Biden announcing his departure from the Presidential ticket:
“I am holding my head high today for President Joe Biden, the Democratic Party, and for America. This November, we must all unite to stop Donald Trump from winning a second term, and President Biden has decided that, for the good of the country, that someone else is the right person for the job.
Joe Biden’s record of accomplishments as our President is unprecedented. He has fought for unions and working-class families – with more people working today than at any point in history. He has invested in manufacturing and renewable energy jobs more than any previous administration. He expanded benefits and services for Veterans, passed the first meaningful gun violence legislation in 30 years, and he saved our economy when other countries continue to struggle to recover from the pandemic. He is a true statesman in every sense of the word.
* US Rep. Kelly…
* US Rep. Casten…
U.S. Congressman Sean Casten (IL-06) has released the following statement:
“President Joe Biden is among the most effective presidents in American history. Over the last four years, Congress has worked hand-in-hand with President Biden to pass the largest investment in climate action ever. Together, we passed a robust infrastructure bill to fix roads and bridges across Illinois. We passed the first gun violence prevention bill in decades. We expanded health coverage for veterans, with more than one million of them using the PACT Act to gain access to the care they need. We returned the United States to the pinnacle of global manufacturing through the CHIPS and Science Act.
“More than anything else, President Biden restored the dignity of the Oval Office and reinforced American leadership abroad. We owe him our thanks and gratitude for his five decades of public service.
“The coming election is a referendum on the future of American democracy. The stakes of this election could not be higher. Donald Trump remains a twice-impeached convicted felon and adjudicated rapist who has promised to be a dictator on day one. Vice President Kamala Harris will beat him this November, and I’m proud to endorse her for President of the United States.”
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