Rachel Ventura 2024 candidate for Illinois Senate District 43

Bio

Party: Democrat

Office Sought: Illinois Senate District 43

City: Joliet

Age: 43

Occupation: State Senator

Previous offices held: Will County Board Member, VP of WC Forest Preserve

How should the state respond to the influx of migrants bussed here from Southern states?

With the new policies in place we have not seen practice continue. This is truly a federal issue and I will continue to advocate for Congress to provide funding and policies to address this issue.

Are you satisfied with the state's existing ethics policies for senators and representatives? If so, what about the policies should reassure Illinoisans that elected leaders abide by high standards? If not, what changes need to be made?

I do not accept any corporate PAC donations for a reason. I have in the past and will continue to push for publicly financed elections so we can return our government to the voters and not the highest bidder.

Would you support a requirement that election petitions include a line asking candidates for their campaign email address?

Yes

How well do you think criminal justice reforms made in recent years are working? What, if any, changes need to be made?

It's important to have safe communities. Allowing judges to hold individuals who are a danger to those communities is important. For other measures, I think we are seeing more individuals being able to integrate into society after their sentence ends and thus reducing recidivism rates. As we continue to move incarcerations more toward rehabilitation the goal is to see a zero recidivism rate. We have a lot of work to still do when it comes to investing resources into communities of need in order to reduce crime initially and increase education and work opportunities.

We now have an assault weapons ban in Illinois. What if any changes should be made to the law? What more can be done to improve gun safety?

No answer given

Illinois is the only state in the nation that mandates regular behind-the-wheel tests for senior drivers. Do you support any changes?

To be clear, the state mandates behind-the-wheel tests for all IL drivers. The age increment is what is in question. I continue to hear all sides of this debate and will consider all voices if a bill reaches the senate.

What personal qualifications do you bring that would make you an effective legislator?

I'm intelligent, compassion, and I listen to all. I use that information, opinions, and facts to make informed and fair decisions. My degrees in Math and Science help me view issues with a logical lens while my interests in mental health and human behavior allow me to balance it with the human element.

My experience as a lawmakers and public servant is one that stands with the people especially on areas of economics, environmental, respect, and ethics. My goal is to have residents trust their elected officials and have faith that government can make their lives better. I'll keep working towards that goal.