Illinois State Flag Debate: Symbol of Change or Unnecessary Expense?
The debate over the potential redesign of Illinois’ state flag continues to be divisive. There are strong opinions on both sides, but personally I believe the effort is a misuse of time and taxpayer dollars. I see no need to stray away from the current Illinois flag.
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 have the opportunity to 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.
In my opinion, the state cannot afford to divert resources to a flag redesign when more pressing issues, such as financial instability and the need to attract businesses remain unaddressed. In a state already grappling with significant budget challenges, I view the flag redesign as emblematic of misplaced priorities, especially at a time when Illinois residents are looking for solutions to everyday problems.
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.
Still Time to Participate in Senator Wilcox’s Valentines for Seniors
My 5th annual “Valentines for Seniors” card drive is underway in the 332nd District, and cards are beginning to trickle in to my legislative office. This outreach event grows in popularity every year, and I’m hoping this will be our best year yet.
Cards and drawings can be mailed to or dropped off at my Woodstock office between now and February 7. My office staff and I will personally deliver the cards and drawings on your behalf the week of Valentines Day.
Valentines can be dropped off between 8:30 AM and 4:00 PM Monday through Friday, or mailed to:
Senator Wilcox’s Legislative Office
209 N. Benton Street
Woodstock, IL 60098
If you are interested in participating or have any questions, don’t hesitate to get in touch with Kim at kjohnson@sgop.ilga.gov.
Senator Wilcox is Hiring!
With the recent departure of my traveling legislative assistant, I am currently accepting applications to fill the position with an organized individual who is interested in assisting me in a variety of ways. This person must be willing to travel to Springfield during session weeks. A typical session year includes between 50 and 60 overnight stays in Springfield.
On session days (January – May and two weeks of veto session in the fall), this employee will work out of my Springfield office and provide administrative support unique to the legislative process. When the legislature is not in session, the legislative assistant will work out of the Woodstock legislative office and provide similar support in collaboration with my district office director.
If you are interested in gaining some public sector work experience and learning about public policy creation and constituent service delivery, please put your resume together and contact my office at (815) 455-6330 so you can learn more about this exciting employment opportunity.
Protecting Illinois Families: GOP Opposes Legalizing Prostitution
Believe it or not, legislation has been filed by a Senate and House Democrat to legalize prostitution in the State of Illinois. I think it is just one more example of the growing disconnect between Democrat lawmakers and the everyday challenges families face. Unsurprisingly, the proposal has ignited an intense debate. Personally, I stand with families that embrace traditional values and will fiercely oppose this legislation if it is brought to the Senate floor.
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.
I think we should be focusing on policies that directly improve the lives of Illinois residents and remain committed to supporting initiatives that promote strong families and safer communities.
If passed and signed into law, Illinois would become the first state to legalize prostitution.