Brenda Rodgers: 2026 candidate for Kane County Clerk

Bio

Party: Democratic

Office sought: Kane County Clerk

City: Elgin

Age:

Occupation: Realtor

Previous offices held: Elgin City Council from 2003-2007

Q&A

Why are you running for this office, whether for re-election or election for the first time? Is there a particular issue that motivates you?

I am running for Kane County Clerk to protect the integrity of our elections and restore trust through ethics, transparency, and accountability. Residents deserve an office that puts people first and ensures every vote is secure, counted accurately, and administered professionally.

A key issue that motivates me is the implementation of Illinois SB 3170, the Voting Rights Act of 2026. This law strengthens voter protections, ensures fair access, and requires language assistance so every eligible voter can fully participate.

As county clerk, I will ensure this law is implemented correctly, fairly, and transparently, while also ensuring that election equipment is reliable and that taxpayer dollars are used responsibly. My commitment is to serve the people of Kane County with integrity and protect their confidence in our election system.

If you are an incumbent, describe your main contributions. Please share any notable initiatives you've led. If you are a challenger, what would you bring to the job, and what would be your priority?

I want to bring honesty, fairness, and strong leadership to the office. One of my top priorities is ensuring elections run smoothly and every vote is secure.

While serving on the Elgin City Council, my colleagues and I helped build two fire stations in four years, improving safety for our residents.

We also kept a major store in our community that was planning to leave. I met with the manager and learned how much they contributed in taxes, scholarships, nonprofits, and jobs. I told my colleagues we cannot control where people shop, but we can keep tax dollars in our community. We voted to keep the store, and our community still benefits today.

As Kane County Clerk, I will work hard, protect election integrity, implement Illinois SB 3170, and serve with transparency and accountability

Name one concrete program you’ll create or personnel move you’ll make to improve efficiency in the office or make it more successful. Explain how it will be funded and how you will overcome any obstacles to initiating it.

If the office does not have an internship program, I will start one. I will make sure information is posted on the website as soon as possible to help our residents conduct business in the office. Ensure the site's information is up-to-date.

The items will not cost the office anything. The internship will be unpaid.

How secure are you in the knowledge that election results in the county are reported fairly and accurately?

Secure