Issues
Parental Rights
The relationship between parents and schools in relation to the education that kids receive is paramount. Parents should and always have the right to be informed on what their kids are being taught in school. Schools should always be required to provide absolute transparency to parents without encumbrances. Our kids deserve the absolute best education without being exploited for purposes of indoctrination.
Taxation and Cost of Living
Statistically speaking, Illinois residents pay some of the highest taxes in this nation. This is particularly true as far as property taxes are concerned. The extreme pain that is caused by high taxes is aggravated during this era of high inflation and economic uncertainty. Rusty will support solutions that reduce the very high taxes Illinoisans currently pay. Therefore, Rusty is proud to support legislation that will implement caps on property tax rates. Reducing the rising cost of living wherever possible will be one of Rusty’s top priorities as your elected state representative. Rusty believes that you as a citizen will spend your money better than the government will.
Crime
Crime is currently being committed at a rate not seen previously in the history of DuPage County. At one time, DuPage served as a refuge from the problems that plague Cook County. Today, DuPage is suffering immensely from the crime that spills over from Cook County. The countless carjackings, shootings (such as what happened at Oak Brook Mall and Safari Land), home invasions, and other crimes are completely unacceptable and should not be tolerated. I support measures to immediately address this pressing issue. My intention is to be one of the least popular candidates for elected office among violent criminals.
The current state of crime in DuPage County demands decisive action. We need policies that deter criminals, protect our residents, and restore safety to our communities. Here's how I plan to do it:
1. Reinforce Law Enforcement:
- Increase funding for police departments to ensure they have the resources needed to combat crime effectively.
- Provide advanced training and equipment to our officers to handle complex and dangerous situations.
2. Strengthen Sentencing Laws:
- Advocate for stricter sentencing for violent crimes, ensuring that those who pose a threat to our communities are kept off the streets.
- Support mandatory minimum sentences for repeat offenders and violent criminals.
3. Oppose the SAFE-T Act:
- The SAFE-T Act, supported by Democrats in Illinois, removed cash bail in the state. This act endangers our communities by allowing violent offenders back on the streets without adequate consequences.
- I stand firmly against this act and will work to repeal or amend it to ensure that our judicial system prioritizes public safety over political agendas.
4. Community Engagement and Support:
- Foster stronger relationships between law enforcement and the communities they serve through outreach programs and community policing initiatives.
- Support local organizations that provide resources and support to at-risk youth, aiming to prevent crime before it starts.
5. Crime Prevention and Awareness:
- Implement programs to educate residents about crime prevention and safety measures.
- Increase the presence of neighborhood watch programs and other community-based safety initiatives.
6. Addressing the Root Causes:
- Work to improve economic opportunities, education, and social services in our communities, addressing the root causes of crime.
- Support mental health and addiction services to help those struggling with issues that can lead to criminal behavior.
My commitment to reducing crime is unwavering. We need to hold the line in DuPage, not adopt the failed policies of Cook County. Together, we can restore safety, security, and peace of mind to our communities. As your State Representative, I pledge to fight tirelessly for the safety and well-being of every resident in Illinois' 46th district. Let’s take back our neighborhoods from those who seek to harm us and ensure a brighter, safer future for our children.
Opioids / Opiates
An article summarizing Robert's views on opiates/opioids.
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