McLean County Times

Early voting for the November 5 election is now taking place. Following the primary elections of March 19, we found out who among the Republican candidates would run against Democratic contenders. The McLean County Board has twenty members; half of their offices are filled every two years. It is again time to decide for whom to vote. Which shall it be? Republican or Democrat, and does it make a difference?

McLean County is divided by population into ten districts, with two representatives from each district on the Board. Sometimes, members are elected to fill openings that have occurred for any of several reasons. During this autumn’s election, ten Republicans are running for positions on the McLean County Board – some incumbents and others new to the position. We encourage voters to support Republican candidates. Why should voters elect them? That’s a great question. Before I address this question, let’s look at McLean County and consider the responsibilities of the County Board.

McLean County is the largest county by land area in Illinois, larger than the state of Rhode Island. According to the 2020 Census, it had a population of 170,954. Its county seat is Bloomington.

The McLean County Board regularly holds meetings to discuss issues and engage with community members on their concerns and priorities. The Board meets on the Thursday following the Executive Committee meeting on the second Monday of each month, so it typically meets once a month.

The County Board represents McLean County residents and addresses various issues that impact local governance and community services. Key areas of concern usually include the following:

• Budget and Finance: Overseeing the county budget, distributing funds across departments, and ensuring efficient management of financial resources.
• Public Safety: Supervising law enforcement agencies, emergency services, and initiatives focused on improving community safety.
• Health Services: Overseeing public health programs, responding to health crises, and ensuring residents have access to healthcare services.
• Infrastructure and Transportation: Coordinating and financing roads, bridges, public transportation, and other infrastructure projects.
• Land Use and Zoning: Evaluating and approving zoning requests, land development projects, and land use policies to promote sustainable growth.
• Economic Development: Promoting initiatives to attract businesses, generate jobs, and drive economic growth in the county.
• Environmental Issues: Tackling environmental issues, including waste management, conservation efforts, and sustainability initiatives.
• Social Services: Supervising social service programs, including housing, mental health, and support for vulnerable populations.
• Education and Community Services: Partnering with local school districts and organizations to improve educational opportunities and community services.
• Policy Development: Developing and updating policies that affect county operations and community well-being.

Because the number of “big issues” that come before the Board is relatively small, candidates often run for office not on the issues but on principles, values, reputations, experience, length of time living in the community, etc. Therefore, one can often find it difficult to decide whom to vote. Some voters will turn to their political party for guidance in such matters. This op-ed has been written specifically for that purpose. Here are my thoughts about whom to vote for.

Historically, McLean County has been a conservative (red) county. In recent years, a substantial amount of campaign money has flowed from the Chicago metropolitan area to turn McLean County progressive (blue). The Democrats are doing everything possible to secure and maintain absolute power in McLean County and across Illinois. They have already done this with the state legislature and the Chicago metropolitan area and are now working on downstate communities with large populations. As conservatives, the Republican party is working to see that this doesn’t happen.

Republican leadership should be seen as more favorable than Democratic leadership for various reasons grounded in fundamental philosophical and policy differences. Here are some key points illustrating why I and other conservatives view Republican leadership as preferable:

Emphasis on Small Government – Republican leadership typically emphasizes limited government intervention in personal lives and the economy. This belief is rooted in the idea that a smaller government is more efficient and enables greater personal freedom. Proponents argue that individual responsibility and entrepreneurship can flourish by minimizing government control. These, in turn, foster innovation and economic growth. This perspective is frequently linked to the principles of free-market capitalism and the notion that individuals are better equipped to make decisions that affect their lives and businesses than the government.

Lower Taxes and Economic Growth – Republicans advocate for lower taxes, especially for businesses and individuals, believing this approach boosts economic activity. Allowing working Americans and companies to retain more of their income, they argue that it fosters job creation, increases wages, and enhances overall economic prosperity. This philosophy is rooted in the idea that lower tax burdens encourage investment and spending, stimulating economic growth.

Personal Responsibility and Self-Reliance – Republican leadership emphasizes self-reliance, personal responsibility, and individual liberty. These preferences are rooted in the belief that individuals should make decisions that impact their lives rather than government. This philosophy manifests in policies that favor work over welfare, encourage entrepreneurship, and aim to reduce excessive dependence on government support. By promoting these values, Republicans argue that they empower individuals to take charge of their circumstances, leading to a more dynamic and prosperous society.

Conservative Social Values – Many Republican leaders uphold traditional family values, advocate for religious freedom, and emphasize the sanctity of life. These principles are fundamental aspects of conservatism that resonate with many Americans who wish to maintain cultural and moral standards they consider vital for the well-being of society. Supporters argue that these values promote strong family structures, community cohesion, and ethical governance, all deemed essential for a thriving nation.

Pro-Business Policies – Republican leadership typically advocates for business growth and economic freedom. By emphasizing deregulation, free-market policies, and trade initiatives, Republicans aim to create an environment where businesses can thrive without being hindered by excessive government intervention. The underlying belief is that supporting businesses fosters job creation and innovation, benefiting the broader economy.

-----

Ultimately, Republican leadership at the local level is appreciated for its focus on freedom, economic opportunity, and individual responsibility. Many supporters believe it presents a vision of limited government and personal liberty, offering pragmatic solutions to America’s challenges. This perspective contrasts the more expansive government programs and progressive policies typically advocated by Democratic leadership.

These values, principles, and beliefs will come into play when “big issues” come before the Board. Issues such as waste dumps, spending local funds to support federally-cause problems such as illegal immigration and housing for the homeless, and using rural lands to develop wind and solar farms are good examples. If your values are conservative, then vote for every Republican candidate running for office in your County District (there are some districts with new and unfilled terms). Please don’t fail to vote (undervote) because failing to vote is, in effect, voting for the other party. An equally balanced Republican v. Democrat Board cannot readily solve problems. Often, such balances cause gridlock, and little to nothing gets done. Vote your values; vote Republican!