Brad Beekman of Bushnell officially kicked off his bid for Illinois State Senate Wednesday, promising to leverage his 28 years as an Illinois State Police officer to serve the state’s families.
Speaking at 6:30 a.m. at Hiel’s Trucking in Prairie City, Beekman said, “For nearly three decades, I served as an Illinois State Police officer, rising to Master Sergeant. I know what it means to protect and serve — and I’m ready to bring that same commitment to Springfield.”
Beekman laid out three core priorities: supporting law enforcement, reducing the cost of living for Illinois families, and restoring accountability in state government.
“This campaign isn’t about politics as usual,” he said. “It’s about common-sense leadership and putting the people of Illinois first.”
The day ended with a launch party at Tellers Event Center in Bushnell.
Beekman is a retired Illinois State Police Master Sergeant and a Western Illinois University graduate. He currently serves on the Bushnell-Prairie City School District board. He and his wife, Bambi, live in McDonough County, where they raised five children. The family attends Checkrow Community Church.
“I’m running to stand with law enforcement, ease the cost of living for Illinois families, and bring real accountability back to Springfield,” Beekman said.
