Conservative Activist Charlie Kirk Assassinated
As we all know, Conservative activist Charlie Kirk, founder of Turning Point USA, was assassinated during an attack at an outdoor event at Utah Valley University on Wednesday. The fatal shooting comes amid a troubling rise in attacks on political figures, with the most recent tragedy involving the killing of Minnesota House Speaker Melissa Hortman and her husband, who were murdered in their home in mid-June. That event followed two assassination attempts against President Trump. Please join me in praying for his family and for our nation as we all grieve this unnecessary loss. Violence has no place in political discourse. We all need to be respectful of each other and listen to different points of view while doing everything possible to promote peace.
ICE Launches Operation Midway Blitz in Chicago
Last week, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security launched a new crackdown on illegal immigration in Chicago known as Operation Midway Blitz.
Under the operation, ICE officials are tasked with tracking down violent criminal illegal aliens, including gang members, rapists, kidnappers, and drug traffickers who were set free under the current sanctuary state policies.
In 2021, our current governor expanded the TRUST Act, banning state and local government from working with ICE in almost every situation, drawing sharp criticism from some lawmakers because it ties the hands of law enforcement officers throughout the state. These current laws put our families and friends at risk. Illinois state officials need to work with federal officials hand in hand to ensure safety throughout our great state.
Submit Info for Veterans Day Wall of Honor Display by October 24
The members of the Illinois Senate Republican Caucus is once again hosting their annual Veterans Day Wall of Honor display at the Statehouse, from October 28 to November 13, providing families across Illinois with an opportunity to pay tribute to their loved ones who courageously served our nation.
The memorial will feature a large electronic display of veterans and their stories, along with a wall where visitors can write notes of thanks to those who served.
I am encouraging friends and families to submit a photo and written story (max: 250 words) along with the following information: name, military branch (Air Force, Army, Coast Guard, Marine Corps, National Guard, Navy) and conflict served (Afghanistan, Iraq, September 11, Gulf War, Vietnam, Korea, WWII, WWI, Peacetime, other). Military photos are preferred but not necessary.
Please email submissions to veteransday@sgop.ilga.gov by October 24, to be included in the Veterans Day Display at the Illinois State Capitol. Submissions can also be mailed to Veterans Day Wall, 110 D Statehouse, Springfield, IL 62706. For questions, please call (217) 782-1154.
August Revenue Report Shows Mixed Results for Illinois
- August report shows mixed revenues.
- Income tax up; corporate and cigarette taxes down.
- Cigarette tax declining as smokers switch to alternatives.
- Inflation and slow growth remain concerns.
- New tax hike targets non-cigarette tobacco products.
Read the full report here.
IDOT Now Accepting Applications for Harvest Permits
The Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) is now accepting applications for Illinois Harvest Permits (IHPs), a free, practical tool that helps farmers and agricultural haulers move crops more efficiently during the fall harvest season. Read more here.
Applications Now Being Accepted for Illinois Small Equipment Grants
The Illinois State Fire Marshal (OSFM) has recently announced the opening of the application period for the Small Equipment Grant Program. Read more here.
Legislative Assistant Job Opportunity
Senator Chris Balkema is looking for a highly motivated leader to serve as a Legislative Assistant! If you’re passionate about serving the people of Illinois and want to make a difference, we’d love to hear from you.
Submit your cover letter and resume to Mary Lou Frank at mfrank@sgop.ilga.gov.
You can reply to this email if you have any questions about this opportunity.
