NW Illinois News

The federal government shut down on October 1 after Democrats rejected a bipartisan plan that would have kept it open. This decision has created uncertainty for families, service members, seniors, and small businesses across the United States and in Illinois.

Republicans noted that a bipartisan solution had already passed the U.S. House with support from both parties, providing a clear way to keep the government running. They criticized Democrats for walking away from this agreement, which led to essential services being halted and widespread disruption.

The shutdown's effects are expected to reach all parts of the country, including Illinois. Service members at Scott Air Force Base and members of the Illinois National Guard may not receive their paychecks. Seniors throughout Illinois could see delays in receiving benefits. Veterans might experience longer waits for care, while working parents could lose access to food and childcare assistance. Small businesses may also face increased uncertainty as economic impacts spread through the state.

"Democrats had a choice: stability and responsibility or chaos and politics. By shutting down the government, they chose politics, and it is families who could be left paying the price," said Senator Andrew Chesney.

Senator Chesney also addressed local concerns regarding Ronald Burt’s petition for executive clemency. Burt was convicted in connection with the 1992 murders of H. Steven Roy and Kevin Muto in Stephenson County—a crime that many residents remember due to its severity. Burt was originally sentenced to death but received life imprisonment after Illinois abolished capital punishment.

"Ronald Burt has petitioned for Executive Clemency, and his petition is set to be heard this month. I, along with Stephenson County Sheriff Steve Stovall and others, have submitted letters expressing our vehement opposition to Burt’s petition for clemency," Chesney stated.

Chesney announced transportation investments coming to his district as part of the Illinois Department of Transportation’s Multi-Year Program from 2026 through 2031. The program will allocate $637.15 million for state highway projects within Senate District 45—represented by Chesney since his election in 2023—and an additional $41.3 million for local road projects in the area (https://www.ilga.gov/senate/Senator.asp?GA=103&MemberID=3207). These improvements aim to enhance safety, strengthen infrastructure, and support communities reliant on dependable roads.

Residents can view a full list of these projects included in IDOT’s six-year Highway Improvement Program by visiting IDOT's website.

Chesney reminded constituents about upcoming outreach events: “Tuesday, October 7: IPASS on Demand in Galena, 3:00 PM – 7:00 PM at Galena City Hall; Saturday, December 13: Pet Adoption Event in Freeport at Friends Forever Humane Society.” He encouraged people to check his website regularly for updates on future events.