McLean County Times

Regan Deering, candidate for Illinois State House District 88, has criticized the majority party's recent actions. "This week's power play by the majority party is everything wrong with Illinois politics," said Deering. She added that the Democrats' actions have undermined democracy and curtailed voters' power.

"This week's power play by the majority party is everything wrong with Illinois politics," said Deering, according to Facebook. "Undermining democracy, manipulating the election process, and curtailing voter's power. It's no wonder people don't trust their elected officials. Trust is earned, not given, and for a generation, politicians have betrayed our trust to advance their power."

Deering made these comments in reference to Senate Bill 2412. In a Facebook post, she stated: "It’s no wonder people don’t trust their elected officials. Trust is earned, not given, and for a generation, politicians have betrayed our trust to advance their power. This election-rigging tactic is a slap in the face to voters. A healthy government fosters competition, ensuring accountability and delivering better policy outcomes. This same bill callously blocked the parental rights ballot initiative, disregarding the hard work of the Parents Matter Coalition and the tens of thousands who wanted their voice heard."

Screenshot of Regan for Illinois May 5 Facebook post | Regan for Illinois Facebook page

Senate Bill 2412 was initially proposed as an amendment to the Children and Family Services Act. The original purpose was to clarify that one of the objectives of the Department of Children and Family Services is to place children in suitable permanent family arrangements. However, an amendment from the House floor replaced everything after the enacting clause to amend the elections code. The revised bill includes changes to filing dates for various nominations and petitions for offices ranging from state level positions to county offices or trustees of sanitary districts. The bill will come into effect immediately upon signing and contains provisions for repealing these new acts on January 1, 2025.

Deering is vying for State Representative Dan Caulkins' seat as he has decided not to run for re-election. Her platform includes restoring parental rights in education and opposing curriculum agendas. If successful, she would represent House District 88 which covers McLean, Macon, Piatt, and DeWitt counties according to Ballotpedia's district map.

Before announcing her bid for the Illinois statehouse in the 88th House District in June, Deering served as a congressional candidate and is currently a Mount Zion school board member. She said that while she didn't initially pursue a political career, there is a demand for advocates of common sense conservatism. According to a previous report from Macon Reporter, Deering emphasized the need for fearless leaders committed to representing voters’ values and interests in Springfield. She added that Central Illinois requires problem solvers with practical experience dedicated to fostering success for all.