Jesiel stands up to union bullies
On Nov. 8, I will vote for Sheri Jesiel for state representative because she has demonstrated the courage needed to take a stance for me, my family, the citizens in our district and all of Illinois' residents.
I know a little about the strength it takes to fight the bullies in Springfield. Former Illinois Gov. Quinn gave SEIU and AFSCME the names and home addresses of thousands of moms, mine included. He told them about our disabled sons and daughters who live at home and receive Medicaid. Their intention was to turn our homes into union workplaces and siphon away Medicaid dollars.
As a mother, I protected my right to care for my son without intrusion. I refused to be bullied into compliance with their scheme. I became lead plaintiff in a lawsuit (Harris v Quinn) against former Gov. Quinn and the public sector unions. Our case made its way through our judicial system to the Supreme Court of the United States, where we won.
Many people still do not understand the differences between private and public sector unions and associate all unions with benefits and protections sought by Norma Rae.
Public sector unions enter into contracts with elected officials obligating the states to deliver public tax dollars to union coffers. Then, the politicians who negotiated these contracts receive union contributions. How can this be in the best interests of the citizens?
Sheri Jesiel is not afraid to meet the challenges our state is facing. She has shown the courage to vote for reform so families can thrive again. She has refused to be bullied despite vicious union-funded attacks against her. We need her bold and strong voice in Springfield. We need her fighting for us.
Pamela Harris
Winthrop Harbor