Illinois Roots
My parents met and started our family in Peoria, I grew up in Rockford, and when it was time to buy my first home, I planted my roots in Moline. At every step, I’ve been surrounded by hard working neighbors who taught me the value of lending a helping hand and looking out for one another. Those lessons stick with me to this day.
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The Value of Hard Work
Ever since I was a kid, I dreamed of being the local weatherman on TV. At 27, that dream came true when I became Chief Meteorologist at WREX in Rockford. For nearly two decades in Rockford and then the Quad Cities, I was proud to be trusted by my neighbors to keep our communities safe.
Now, I’ve taken that same trust to Congress, fighting to make sure every one of my neighbors has the same chance to work hard and succeed, right here in Central and Northwestern Illinois.
A Good Neighbor
I came out while at Northern Illinois University and received tremendous support from my friends and family. Now I’m dedicated to giving back to the neighborhoods that accepted me for who I am.
I worked with state and federal partners to reopen the idled Belvidere Assembly Plant and secure a commitment to bring thousands of good-paying jobs home to the Rockford area. I lead on legislation to keep jobs at the Rock Island Arsenal, lower costs for families, and I’m focused on making sure everyone has the chance to succeed.
As a good neighbor, I’m listening to all our communities, big and small, to deliver the support needed to fix our roads, create jobs, and keep our communities safe, healthy, and affordable for the future.
Today, I live in Moline with my partner, Shawn, and our two dogs, Oliver and Petey. We love bike riding, kayaking, and trying good food around the Quad Cities.
Why I'm Running
Our communities are special. We have a unique way of life here and I want to make sure we preserve it for future generations. I didn’t come to Congress as a politician. I came as your trusted neighbor, focused on tackling real problems with common-sense, bipartisan solutions. I’m working for the people and the place I love, and that’s why I’m running.