Andrew Chesney’s GOP run for the Illinois House in the 89th District is all about his love for the people of his community.
“There is no more important place to me in the world than northwest Illinois,” Chesney said in a press release. “My family, my home and my business have always been here. I want to make sure that the opportunities that I have been afforded in this part of Illinois are available for generations to come.”
Currently the alderman-at-large in Freeport, Chesney is running to for the seat vacated by Rep. Brian Stewart (R-Freeport).
Since serving on the Freeport City Council beginning in 2015, Chesney has made increasing city funding for public infrastructure and law enforcement part of his mission. His top priorities have also included lowering taxes and fees across the town.
“We’ve made great strides over the past two years in changing how Freeport’s government operates, and it’s that same commitment to change, progress, and working together to solve problems that I want to take with me to Springfield,” he added in the release.
Born in Freeport and raised in Shannon, Chesney said he hopes his run for state representative will allow him the chance to meet more people from the area and share with them more of his vision.
“I look forward to meeting with residents across the 89th Illinois House District and discussing the issues that are important to us in northwest Illinois,” he added, “I hope I have the opportunity to meet with you to hear your thoughts on how we can improve our local economy, better support our teachers and students in the classroom, and bring about much needed reform in our state government.”
Chesney, a division sales manager with Seaga Manufacturing, resides in Freeport with his wife, Kelly, and their two dogs. He also serves as the chairman of the Stephenson County Republican Central Committee and is a past board member of RAMP (Regional Access Mobilization Project), an organization that provides support services and advocacy for people with disabilities.
Since announcing his candidacy, Chesney has secured the endorsements of several local officials, including longtime Stephenson County Sheriff Dave Snyders.
“To be a successful state representative, you need to have the ability to understand issues, listen to your constituents, address their concerns, and vote their collective voices. Andrew excels at all of these.” Snyders added in a release. “He is also one who truly appreciates and acknowledges the hard working men and women in our public safety sector. As a 40 year law enforcement professional, I am aware of the challenges all of us in this field face on a daily basis. Andrew recognizes those challenges and shares the concerns of the law enforcement community.”
In addition to Stephenson, the 89th Illinois House District includes parts of Carroll, Jo Daviess, Ogle, Whiteside and Winnebago counties.