JOBS

I have a vast array of experiences in the private sector which leads me to believe I am qualified and confident to lead.

We are presently punishing all businesses with inordinate high tax and fee rates. Businesses do not pay taxes, we as consumers actually wind up absorbing them in product cost. Goods and services are cheaper across our borders for this reason. This scenario is also playing out on the world stage as well. They are catching up to us by playing our economic game. We need every advantage to stay competitive. Government is supposed to help, not interfere. Restriction, regulation, and taxation typically hinder, not help. We must stop eating our seed corn. Education and healthcare will become meaningless topics is we do not preserve and protect freedom for the entrepreneurial spirit which ultimately runs our country's economic engine.

PROPERTY TAXES

For years our leaders have espoused property tax relief. ILLINOIS has adopted a lottery, toll fees, a higher income tax and to what end? It's hard to believe that one of the strongest states is having financial difficulties. Have we been planning properly? Are we spending wisely? I will work with Maureen Murphy on the Board of Review to reform property taxes once and for all. Many senior citizens are having a difficult time adjusting to back to back property tax increases. I care about them, I hope you do too.

TORT REFORM

Common sense should prevent astronomical and frivolous lawsuits. Since the legal community has not policed nor regulated itself, I would have to support and endorse such needed change. Although the insurance industry is not without fault, liability risk insurance for all business are, and have been, skyrocketing because of unguided legal suit bonanza awards. If good doctors are leaving practice or moving to other states, what other professional entities will follow as well? Next to the cost of crude oil by the barrel, liability insurance is becoming a major player in market pricing for the economy.

AFFORDABLE EDUCATION

A good affordable education is an invaluable tool in communities like ours. Nothing would benefit our community more than an influx of professionals who are equipped with the best knowledge in their fields. While we are struggling against soaring college tuition rates, Springfield is making sure illegal aliens have the "right" to cheaper, taxpayer funded tuition. I will look after our community's children first and uphold support for school choice, tax tuition credits to working parents, and affordable college for our kids.