Statement of Candidacy

Joshua T. Atkinson — Candidate for Illinois State Senate, 45th District

I’m running for the Illinois State Senate because the people of Northwest Illinois deserve more than political games, broken promises, and empty suits. They deserve a fighter—someone who listens, leads, and tells the truth.

For too long, the 45th District has been represented by a politician more focused on self-promotion than public service. Andrew Chesney hasn’t been a voice for working families—he’s been a mouthpiece for Springfield insiders and party bosses. While our communities struggle with higher taxes, crumbling infrastructure, and shrinking opportunities, Chesney’s been all bark and no bite—more interested in headlines than results, simply trying to pad his political résumé.

I didn’t grow up with a silver spoon or political connections. I was raised in a working-class home by a union bricklayer who taught me “The Big Three”: Do what you're told. Don’t lie. Don’t mess with other people’s stuff. Simple rules—powerful ones. And exactly what our state government has forgotten.

As a U.S. Navy veteran, business developer, and proud middle-class Illinoisan, I’ve spent my life solving problems, not creating them. I’ve built businesses, supported neighborhoods, and helped create jobs. I’ve served my country with honor, and I’m ready to serve my community with that same sense of duty.

I’m not running to be a rubber stamp for a party or a pawn in someone else’s agenda. I’m running to represent the people of this district. That means:

• Doing what I’m told—by the voters, not the insiders.

• Telling the truth—even when it’s inconvenient.

• Protecting what’s yours—your paycheck, your property, and your freedom.

This campaign isn’t about left vs. right. It’s about right vs. wrong. And it’s about sending someone to Springfield who answers to the people—not the political machine.

The 45th District doesn’t need a loudmouth in an ill-fitted suit who shows up for headlines and disappears when it’s time to do the work. We need a leader with backbone and heart—someone who’s not afraid to get their hands dirty, ask the hard questions, and put in the work to build something better.

That’s why I’m running. Because it’s time Northwest Illinois had a real choice—and a real voice.

Joshua T. Atkinson
For Illinois State Senate — 45th District
Transparency. Accountability. Integrity.