NW Illinois News

Jillian Bernas believes in family.

That is why the 56th District Republican decided to run against incumbent Rep. Michelle Mussman (D-Schaumburg) despite her 2016 loss to her.

The stakes are even higher this time, with Gov. Bruce Rauner recently signing HB40, which authorizes taxpayer-subsidized abortions under Medicaid and state insurance, Bernas said.

Bernas argues that the decisions Rauner has made have called into question his ability to reform the state, reduce costs and focus on the truly vulnerable.

“I'm running for office for families in my community -- for the individuals who aren't part of the inside games and the establishment," Bernas told the North Cook News. “I am looking to support individuals running for office that have the best interests of Illinois families as their compass.”

The former teacher who is now an international relations manager hopes to lead District 56, which includes Schaumburg, Hanover Park, Roselle and Elk Grove Village. Born and raised in Schaumburg, Bernas moved away and returned to unacceptable conditions, she said.

“We are up against self-serving politicians in our state like [House Speaker] Michael Madigan and his followers that have a stranglehold on our state and continue to push forward bad policy,” Bernas said. “We cannot let a Madigan-backed candidate win the governor’s office, and we need someone who will reform our state and reduce the cost burden on taxpayers."

Bernas believes in change and wonders whether Rauner should continue to lead Illinois.

“The families in my district are tired of political games and politicians' self-interest,” Bernas said. “I'm running for office to represent our community, and so I am focused first and foremost on working to lower the tax burden on families, increase jobs in the state and fight political corruption.”

In 2016, Bernas garnered 44.7 percent of the vote.