

Chris Balkema Sworn in as Illinois Senator for the 53rd District
Senator Chris Balkema, the newly elected Senator for Illinois’ 53rd District, was sworn in as part of the 104th General Assembly today, January 8th, 2025. Balkema expressed his excitement for the opportunity to serve and extended congratulations to outgoing Senator Bennett for his decade of service.
“I am honored to represent the 53rd District in the Illinois Senate and humbled by the trust placed in me to serve our communities,” Balkema said. “As I step into this role, I want to congratulate Senator Bennett on his remarkable ten years of service. His dedication to our district and to the people of Illinois has left a lasting legacy, and I wish him the best in this next chapter of his life.”
Balkema, who won the Republican nomination for the 53rd District Senate seat in March, ran unopposed in the fall general election. Since his election, he has focused on meeting the 108 mayors in the district, which spans 13 counties, to better understand local needs and priorities.
Balkema brings a wealth of leadership experience to the role. First elected to the Grundy County Board in 2010, he has served as Chairman since 2016. In addition to his public service, Balkema has a 31-year career with Caterpillar, holding leadership roles in Human Resources, Operations, Logistics, and Purchasing. He is active in his church, and previously served on the Grundy County Economic Development Council and held an advisory role on the Taylor University Business Advisory Council.
Balkema holds a Bachelor of Science in Business Systems from Taylor University and an MBA from Bradley University. He and his wife of 26 years reside in Channahon and are proud parents of two sons in college.
“I am eager to begin this important work for the people of the 53rd District,” Balkema said. “I’m excited to represent our communities, understand their needs, and work together with leaders across the state to drive positive change for Illinois.”
Chris Balkema now begins his first term as Senator, representing the diverse communities of the 53rd District in the Illinois Senate. For more information, please visit his website, senatorchrisbalkema.com and following him on Facebook and Instagram at Senator Chris Balkema.

Illinois State Flag Debate: Symbol of Change or Unnecessary Expense?
The debate over the potential redesign of Illinois’ state flag continues to divide public opinion. Critics of the redesign, including Senator Chris Balkema, argue that the effort is a misuse of time and taxpayer dollars.
Senator Balkema emphasizes that the state cannot afford to divert resources to a flag redesign when more pressing issues, such as financial instability, struggling schools, and the need to attract businesses, remain unaddressed. In a state already grappling with significant budget challenges, he views the flag redesign as emblematic of misplaced priorities, especially at a time when Illinois residents are looking for solutions to everyday problems.
The Illinois Flag Commission selected its top 10 finalists from nearly 5,000 submissions for the state flag redesign contest. These designs are available for public viewing and voting on the Secretary of State’s website. Residents can vote for one of the new designs, select from historical flag designs, or reject a redesign entirely by voting to retain the current flag. Individuals can cast their votes once every 24 hours, but once a vote is submitted, it cannot be changed.
After the public voting concludes, the Illinois Flag Commission will tally the votes and submit its findings and recommendations to the Illinois General Assembly by April 1. At that time, members of the General Assembly will vote on whether to adopt a new flag, return to a previous design, or retain the current flag.

Protecting Illinois Families: GOP Opposes Legalizing Prostitution
Illinois Democrats are facing backlash after introducing a proposal to legalize prostitution, a move critics say highlights a growing disconnect between Democrat lawmakers and the everyday challenges families face. The proposal has ignited a fierce debate, with Senator Balkema urging Illinois Democrats to reject the policy and refocus on the issues that matter most to the people of the state.
Opponents argue the legislation could exacerbate issues tied to illegal immigration, as traffickers exploit weakened laws to expand their networks in Illinois communities. They view the move as prioritizing fringe special interests over public safety and the well-being of families. Rather than normalizing sex work, critics believe the state should prioritize enhancing anti-trafficking efforts, providing support for victims, and strengthening laws that protect individuals from exploitation.
As frustration grows among families across the state over what they see as misplaced priorities from Democrat lawmakers, many are calling for leadership to address pressing challenges, such as affordability and safety, rather than pursuing radical experiments.
Senator Balkema emphasized the importance of focusing on policies that directly improve the lives of Illinois residents. He remains committed to supporting strong families and safer communities, urging Democrat lawmakers to reject proposals that put ideological agendas above practical solutions.

Illinois GOP Senators to Deliver Valentine’s Cheer to Seniors
Senator Balkema is launching the annual “Valentines for Seniors” card drive, inviting students, church groups, scouting organizations, and community members to create homemade Valentine’s Day cards for seniors in assisted living centers, nursing homes, and long-term care facilities.
The cards, featuring messages of kindness and respect, will be collected and delivered to local care facilities, spreading joy and brightening the days of elderly residents. Senator Balkema says this effort will also strengthen the bond between generations, as younger community members actively participate in showing appreciation for those who have paved the way.
Cards and drawings can be dropped off or mailed until Feb. 7. You can drop off or mail your cards to either of these offices: Pontiac Office: 305 West Madison St, Pontiac, IL 617642 or Dwight Office: 132 East Main St, Dwight, IL 6173
Senator Balkema’s office from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday through Thursday and 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. on Fridays. For more information about dropping cards off after hours, contact Senator’s office at 815-844-9179.