Protecting What We Share: Conservation Is Conservative. Stewardship Is Patriotic.
“You don’t have to be a liberal to care about clean water. You just have to be a good neighbor. Protecting the environment is about stewardship — not slogans — and that’s something I take seriously.”
— Joshua T. Atkinson
Joshua T. Atkinson believes that protecting our environment is not about partisanship — it’s about responsibility. As a Navy veteran, business developer, and lifelong outdoorsman, he understands the value of clean water, healthy soil, and open land. Environmental protection isn’t just good policy — it’s common sense, rooted in faith, family, and respect for the generations that come after us.
The Problem: Neglect, Pollution, and Political Games
While a political insider focuses on headlines and lobbyists, small towns across Illinois’ 45th District are left behind:
Unsafe water systems still exist in too many of our communities
Runoff and waste hurt farmland and small ecosystems
Big polluters get tax breaks while small businesses deal with red tape
Career politicians talk about conservation but vote to weaken local enforcement
The natural beauty and resources of our region are at risk from overdevelopment and inaction
Atkinson’s Plan: Protect the Land. Defend the Future.
1. Fix Rural Water Infrastructure
Every family deserves clean, reliable drinking water. Josh will prioritize upgrades to water systems in rural and distressed communities — no more waiting for a crisis.
2. Support Conservation Through Agriculture
Healthy land is productive land. Josh will back voluntary conservation programs that help farmers improve soil, reduce runoff, and preserve open space — while keeping government off their backs.
3. Hold Polluters Accountable
Large-scale polluters should face real consequences. Atkinson will push for smart enforcement and end corporate handouts that reward environmental abuse.
4. Promote Local Renewable Projects
Solar and bioenergy should serve Illinois families, not foreign investors. Josh will support local clean energy projects that strengthen the grid and create jobs without spiking utility rates.
5. Preserve Our Outdoor Way of Life
Whether you farm, fish, hike, or hunt — access to clean, open land is part of our identity. Josh will fight to keep public lands open, protected, and free from overreach.
A Conservative Approach to Conservation
“You don’t have to be a liberal to care about clean water. You just have to be a good neighbor. Protecting the environment is about stewardship — not slogans — and that’s something I take seriously.”
— Joshua T. Atkinson
Take Action
If you believe in clean water, responsible farming, and keeping Illinois beautiful and productive — join us:
Volunteer to help spread the word
Donate to power a people-first campaign
Talk to your neighbors about common-sense conservation
Vote for Joshua T. Atkinson in the Republican primary
Have a Question? Ask Josh!
Want to know where Josh stands on an issue or share your thoughts? Fill out the form below—your message goes straight to Josh himself. No filters, no staffers—just real talk, direct from the candidate. He’s happy to answer personally.