A message from Senator Chris Balkema:
“Since I was sworn into office in January 2025, I’ve thought a lot about the kind of leader I want to be and the principles that should guide my work in the Illinois Senate.
“After many conversations with people I respect, one phrase kept coming back to me: Leading with Love.
“I know some people may hear that and think it sounds too soft. But I believe the opposite is true. We are not going to get things done in Illinois by pushing people around, scoring political points or chasing headlines. We get things done by standing firm on our principles, listening to the people we represent and treating others with respect and compassion.
“The people who sent me to Springfield expect me to fight for what I believe is right, and I will. Sometimes that means being assertive, speaking up when something doesn’t make sense and demanding action. But we can do all of that with love.
“That’s the kind of leadership I want to bring to this office. Calm, compassionate and respectful, but never afraid to stand firm.
“I think of Abraham Lincoln, who led our country through one of its most difficult chapters. He understood that strength and compassion are not opposites. They can, and should, exist together.
“So I’m moving forward with Leading with Love as my guiding principle. It will be reflected in our website, our work and the way I serve the people of Illinois.
“I’m excited about what we can accomplish together, and I welcome your thoughts and feedback on what it means to lead with love in our communities and our state.”