Endorsement: Grant for Illinois House District 47

Incumbent Amy Grant is once again being challenged by Jackie Williamson for state representative in the 47th District of the Illinois House. They previously ran against each other in 2022.

Grant, a Republican from Wheaton, has represented her district since 2019. Before that, she served on the DuPage County Board from 2012 to 2018. Her experience in public office is impressive, as is her willingness to work with others, listen and engage in thoughtful debate. She has a solid grasp of the issues facing Illinois and her district, including the influx of migrants in our area, criminal justice reform and Illinois’ assault weapons ban.

Williamson, a Democrat also from Wheaton, is also well spoken and educated on the issues. Although many of her stances vary from Grant’s, we appreciate that Williamson offers strong opinions, solid plans to deal with issues such as gun violence and the influx of immigrants. She seems to be a problem solver who wants to, as her website states, “maintain and improve the rights and freedoms we are losing at the federal level: the freedom to access lifesaving health care, the right to be safe from gun violence in our communities and schools, and the right to an environment free of pollution.”

We admire that about Williamson but have concerns about her lack of experience in public office, although we like that her background in human resources demonstrates that she is solutions driven and a good listener, two admirable qualities.

While we think both candidates would represent the 47th District well, Grant’s experience tips the scales. She is endorsed.

The 47th District covers all or parts of Bartlett, Carol Stream, Glen Ellyn, Lisle, Naperville, Warrenville, Wheaton and Winfield.