A Letter From Michele…

Dear Friends of Michele Clark,

Illinois has always been my home. I was born in Cook County, raised in Lake County, owned a business in McHenry County, and have lived and raised a family in Kane County for nearly 30 years. I love this state. And until recently, I have to admit, I have taken many things that make Illinois such a special place for granted. Even worse, I have, at times, fallen prey to the negative points which many people in our state love to rant about (high taxes, the Bears threatening to leave, population flat, oh and again, taxes). Sure these are valid concerns but during my campaign, I will be the candidate who will shout from the rooftops that Illinois is a state we should be proud of. 

I am proud that Illinois believes workers deserve a livable wage (did you know Iowa, Wisconsin, and Indiana’s minimum wage is still $7.25 an hour?). I am proud that Illinois believes our neighbors should live without fear of being kidnapped based on the color of their skin or if they have an accent. I am proud that Illinois is an island of freedom to choose what is right for our own bodies and health. I am proud that Illinois values and invests in public education. I am proud Illinois has agreed to invest in the improvement of our transit system and infrastructure. I am proud Illinois is one of the largest investors in safe nuclear and clean energy. I am proud Illinois is home to the greatest city in the world-Chicago. I am proud of our midwestern values. I am proud that in Illinois, we care about our neighbors. 

These days it is too easy to get sucked into negative conversations and find the bad side of things before the good. Abraham Lincoln said, “We can complain that roses have thorns or rejoice because thorn bushes have roses.” Well said, Abe. It is in this positive spirit, my candidacy for Illinois State Senate will reside. 

Unapologetically an Illinois lover,

Michele