State Treasurer Candidate

Questions & Answers

What is the importance of the State Treasurer to your constituents in Champaign County?

The State Treasurer's office serves an important role for all citizens of Illinois, but many of the programs run through the Treasurer's office serve Champaign County in a unique way. Illinois' 529 College Savings plans help the people of Illinois to save money in tax-advantaged accounts which provides for more spending on any of the many post-high school educational opportunities in Champaign County. Additionally, the Ag Invest program allows for farmers to obtain below-market rate loans to finance operations. The Secure Choice program provides a 401k-like retirement savings opportunity for employees whose companies may not be able to offer that option. These are a few important examples of ways the Treasurer can serve the people of Champaign County.

Why are you qualified to be the State Treasurer?

First and foremost, I graduated the University of Illinois College of Business with a degree in Finance back in 1999. My education there laid the groundwork for the past 19 years I have spent in consulting and finance roles across various industries. This experience has left me with the skillset to work with people of various backgrounds and a breadth of ideas, and push them toward a common goal of success. Our representatives in Springfield need this skillset desperately, and I look forward to using it to help move Illinois forward, rather then trying to pull us left or right.

What is a key policy difference between you and your Opponent[s]?

One of the single most important attributes we can ask for in a Treasurer for our state is for them to be an independent financial mind that can drive fiscal responsibility in our state without playing partisan politics. Neither of my opponents can make a claim of true independence. Their parties and campaigns are financed by groups and lobbyists with plenty of partisanship at stake. As a third party candidate, there is no party boss calling the shots on my policy decisions. My campaign is financed entirely out of my pocket and by small, individual contributions. I am the only one who can sincerely make the claim to be creating independent policy that will serve all the people of Illinois, and not just political insiders.

Is there anything else you would like to say to an undecided voter in Champaign County?

Champaign County is near and dear to my heart. The four years I spent in Champaign were some of the best of my life. I regularly come back to visit campus and have enjoyed showing my wife and kids around the area. I truly believe Champaign County has great days ahead, but to realize that opportunity, we need to send people to Springfield who understand how to create an economic environment that allows that opportunity to flourish. I am asking for your vote to help that become a reality. I appreciate your consideration.