Your news: Walker uses legislative recess to connect with constituents

State Rep. Mark Walker (D-Arlington Heights) has used every free afternoon to walk door to door, talking about state issues and connecting with constituents. Walker, who has been in office 18 months, is a fulltime state representative and relies on conversations with constituents to help shape his legislative priorities, and represent the opinions of his community.

"I've talked with over 15,000 of my constituents at their own front doors, and it really helps me to understand what people in this community want and need," Walker said. "For example, people told me that the Cook County sales tax was hurting their families and businesses, so I introduced the legislation that allowed the tax to be reduced. Now, when I tell people about that bill, they know that they voice can be heard in Springfield. There is more work to be done, and I need to continually hear from the people I represent so I know my priorities for action."

In addition to going door to door, Walker has hosted 12 town hall meetings across his district and regularly meets with citizen advisory panels, which help Walker craft his legislative priorities in a variety of areas including good government, job creation, education and issues affecting seniors, women and veterans.

Walker represents the 66th District, covering parts of Rolling Meadows, Arlington Heights, Mount Prospect, Elk Grove Village, Schaumburg and Des Plaines.

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