As the voice for the 114th District in Springfield, I have consistently stood up to special interests and put the needs of this district first.

I am focused on boosting economic growth by creating jobs and attracting new businesses to our communities. My leadership is paving the way for opportunity and revitalization in the Metro East region.

One of my key initiatives is the creation of the Metro East Development Authority (HB1216), which will be a driving force in bringing new businesses and industries to the area. By proactively recruiting companies to invest in the region, Schmidt is positioning the district as a hub of economic activity and ensuring residents have access to good-paying jobs.

I also understand that affordable housing is the backbone of a thriving community. That’s why I introduced HB1218, which offers a property tax abatement for properties where affordable housing has been built or is planned. This measure not only makes housing more accessible but also encourages developers to invest, ensuring families in the district have secure and affordable places to live.

I worked to extend the Rivers Edge Tax Credit (HB4106), an incentive that drives investment and development in the Metro East. By fostering public-private partnerships and spurring projects in underserved areas, this initiative is helping breathe new life into communities that have long been overlooked. Through bold, forward-thinking initiatives like these, I am delivering real, tangible results that strengthen the economy and improve the quality of life for the people of the district.

The high cost of living is hurting our residents and I am fighting for fiscal responsibility in Springfield. I voted against the Governor’s bloated $50.4 billion budget because it included pay raises for legislators and hundreds of millions of dollars for people in our state illegally. When Washington Park can’t get the money the community needs to invest in critical infrastructure improvements – how can we justify investing hundreds of millions of dollars into programs for people who legally cannot be in this country?

We also need better support for our veterans in Illinois. I believe that veterans, after sacrificing so much for our country, deserve a government that supports and honors them. I led the charge to create a task force (HB1217) that will assess and make recommendations to improve critical programs and services for veterans. And to ease financial burdens on active-duty military personnel, I also introduced legislation (HB1563) to waive vehicle license plate renewal fees. It’s a small step that sends a big message of gratitude to those who serve.

There is no greater priority to me than the safety, security, and prosperity of my constituents. That’s why I’m a proud supporter of local law enforcement and a staunch advocate for crime prevention. Recognizing the financial challenges many communities face in implementing public safety measures, I co-sponsored legislation (HB1542) to establish a grant fund that helps local law enforcement agencies afford body cameras. These tools are essential for accountability and transparency, and I am ensuring our first responders have access to the resources they need.

To protect vulnerable seniors, I also championed HB2100, which enhances penalties for elder abuse. This vital legislation sends a clear message that mistreating older adults will not be tolerated in Illinois and helps safeguard our parents and grandparents. Furthermore, recognizing the widespread economic harm caused by the pandemic, I introduced legislation (HB3304) to extend the statute of limitations for prosecuting individuals who committed COVID-19-related fraud. This ensures that justice is served for those who exploited government resources intended to help struggling families.

I am not just promising change and results—I’m delivering them. From growing the economy to honoring veterans and standing up for public safety, I am relentlessly working to improve your and your family’s quality of life!