Joshua T. Atkinson believes the heart of Illinois beats strongest in its rural communities. From Freeport to Forreston, Lena to Lanark, and through the hard-working farm towns of District 45, our region is full of good people, strong values, and untapped potential.

But while Springfield throws money at cities and political pet projects, our communities are left behind.

We don’t need handouts—we need leadership.

The Problem: Political Neglect & Economic Stagnation

For years, State Senator Andrew Chesney has talked tough while delivering nothing. Under his watch:

• Young people have left for better opportunities elsewhere

• Family farms and small businesses have struggled under rising costs and shrinking support

• Property taxes have gone up while local services have declined

• Infrastructure has crumbled, broadband gaps remain, and manufacturing jobs have disappeared

The truth is simple: Andrew Chesney is part of the problem. He’s focused on political games, not economic growth. He votes safely, speaks loudly, and gets nothing done. That’s not leadership—it’s careerism. And it’s costing us our future.

Atkinson’s Plan: Build, Invest, and Unleash Rural Potential

Joshua T. Atkinson is a Navy veteran, business developer, and chamber leader who has worked across both urban and rural America. He understands what it takes to create lasting, local growth—and he’s ready to fight for it in Springfield.

1. Invest in Infrastructure That Drives Growth

From roads and bridges to rural broadband and water systems, we must upgrade the backbone of our towns. Businesses won’t grow—and families won’t stay—if we don’t modernize our infrastructure.

2. Support Skilled Trades and Workforce Development

Not every path leads to college—and it shouldn’t have to. Josh will champion vocational programs, apprenticeships, and school-to-career pipelines that prepare young people for high-quality, local jobs.

3. Support Local Businesses and Farms

Cut red tape. Simplify the tax code. Stand up to corporate giveaways and foreign land grabs. Josh will prioritize family farms and mom-and-pop shops—the backbone of our rural economy.

4. Bring Back Main Street

Thriving towns need more than jobs—they need vibrant community centers. Josh supports smart investments in housing, walkable downtowns, and community gathering spaces that make people proud to call rural Illinois home.

5. Expand Access to Reliable Broadband

No family, student, or entrepreneur should be left disconnected. Josh will fight to close the digital divide and ensure every community has access to high-speed internet.

A Leader Who Knows How to Deliver

“I've seen what happens when leadership fails—and I’ve also seen what happens when people step up and do the work.

We don’t have to settle for empty promises and economic decline. We can build a rural economy that’s modern, resilient, and rooted in our values. But first, we have to fire the career politicians and send someone who knows how to get things done.”

— Joshua T. Atkinson

It’s Time for a Change

District 45 deserves more than soundbites. We deserve results. Joshua T. Atkinson will bring common sense, business experience, and a fighter’s mindset to Springfield—because rebuilding our rural economy isn’t just a priority, it’s personal.

Let’s fire Andrew Chesney and build a future that works—for all of us.

Get Involved

Join our movement—donate, volunteer, or help spread the word.
Together, we can bring real leadership back to Northwest Illinois.