Jonathan Carroll: 2022 candidate for Illinois House 57th District

Bio

Party: Democrat

Office sought: Illinois House 57th District

City: Northbrook

Age: 48

Occupation: ADHD and Executive Functioning Coach

Previous offices held: Current state representative; previous member of Community Relations Committee in Northbrook

Q&A

Q: What needs to be done structurally to make the legislature more effective? What is your position on term limits in general and for legislative leaders specifically?

A: As one of the 19 Democrats who stood up to Mike Madigan, this was a huge step in changing how business is done in Springfield. Under current Speaker Welch, we're already seeing major changes and passing significant legislation like the Clean Energy Jobs Act which makes a major investment in our environmental infrastructure.

I fully support leadership term limits. I was proud to sponsor legislation that puts a ten-year limit on leadership. This should also include committee chairs. As we've seen with individuals like Martin Sandoval or Luis Arroyo, a committee chair can wield improper influence. We can't allow this to happen again.

Q: Federal assistance has enabled the state to make important advances toward improving its budget. What will you do to ensure these advances continue when the federal aid is gone?

A: Since taking office back in 2017, Illinois has made major strides in restoring its fiscal health. From paying down our debt to replenishing the rainy day fund, we're on a better track. This has been noticed by the financial world as well. Our credit worthiness is better than it's been in years. We've created new revenue streams like cannabis and sports betting. As we identify opportunities to modernize the way we do business, this will also help cut costs and make things more efficient.

Q: To what extent are you happy or unhappy with the evidence-based model for education funding now in place in Illinois? How would you define "adequate" state funding for Illinois schools and what will you do to promote that?

A: As a former Special Education teacher, I can tell you first hand that education is always evolving and we must adapt to this process. We're producing some of the best and most desirable students in the country and other states have noticed. Just look at where graduating seniors are attending college. We've increased funding and must continue to do so.

Q: Do you believe elections in Illinois are free and fair? What changes, if any, are needed regarding election security and voter access?

A: Yes. The narrative that our elections aren't free or safe has been weaponized by Donald Trump and his followers. It's a dangerous narrative that leads to catastrophic consequences.

Q: How well has Illinois responded to Supreme Court indications that it considers abortion, gay marriage and other social issues to be state, not federal, responsibilities? What if anything needs to be done in these areas and what would you do to make your vision come to pass?

A: Over the past few years, we've created strong protections anticipating possible changes to the Supreme

Court. I have a perfect Pro-Choice and Pro-LGBTQIA voting record and will continue standing up for the right things.