For far too long, the people of Northwest Illinois have been treated as a political afterthought—used as campaign props and then ignored after the election. Joshua T. Atkinson believes that true representation means listening more than lecturing and serving people over party bosses.

Career politicians like Andrew Chesney toe the party line, vote how they’re told, and treat their seat as a stepping stone—not a public trust. Atkinson believes it's time to end the puppet show and restore real accountability in Springfield.

The Problem: Loyalty to Party, Not the People

• Local needs take a back seat to party agendas

• Votes are cast to appease donors, not constituents

• Honest voices are drowned out by insiders and political operatives

• The same old names—like Brian Stewart—keep pulling strings behind the scenes

It’s no wonder people have lost faith in government. They’re not being represented—they’re being managed.

Atkinson’s Commitment: Courage Over Compliance

1. Represent the People, Not the Party

Josh will put District 45 first—always. That means voting with principle, not pressure. He’ll work with anyone who’s serious about solutions—and stand firm against anyone putting politics over people.

2. Refuse Pay-to-Play Politics

He will never take orders from Springfield insiders or trade votes for campaign cash. Josh will publish his calendar, reject lobbyist perks, and support full transparency in campaign finance.

3. Hold Regular Town Halls and Open Office Hours

Real representation means being accessible. Josh will host regular listening sessions throughout the district to stay connected, informed, and accountable.

4. Fight for Local Control

From zoning to school policy, Josh believes decisions should be made closest to home—not dictated from the Capitol.

5. Pass Term Limits and Ethics Reform

No one should get rich off public service. Atkinson will back legislation to limit terms, ban revolving-door lobbying, and enforce strict conflict-of-interest rules.

A New Kind of Leader for a Tired System

"I’m not running to climb the political ladder—I’m running to tear it down.

I’m not here to serve a party—I’m here to serve people. And if that ruffles feathers, so be it.

I’d rather be right with the people than comfortable with the insiders."

— Joshua T. Atkinson

Fire the Puppet. Hire a Fighter.

District 45 doesn’t need another yes-man in a nice suit and a silver spoon. We need a voice that’s bold, grounded, and unafraid to tell both parties: Enough.

It’s time for real representation. It’s time for Joshua T. Atkinson.

Take Action

If you believe in restoring common sense to Springfield—if you believe in defending working families, protecting freedoms, and standing up to career politicians—then it’s time to act.

• Volunteer to knock doors, make calls, or host an event

• Donate to fuel our grassroots campaign

• Share our message with your neighbors

• Vote in the Republican primary and help change the future of District 45

Together, we can fire the political elite—and send a fighter to Springfield who works for us.

Join the movement. Stand with Joshua T. Atkinson.