To the Editor:
In the village of Homer, our 'downtown' features more false fronts and vacant lots than businesses. Like many communities in the 15th Illinois Congressional District, we are hardworking people who feel more like 'flyover country' to the Washington elite than a priority.
As the March 17th primary approached, I invited all seven congressional candidates to sit down for coffee with my neighbors. Six candidates accepted.
Representative Mary Miller didn't even acknowledge the invitation.
Living just 35 miles away, her silence is deafening. While she makes headlines speaking to national influencers, she couldn't find an hour for the people of Homer. To make matters worse, after years of calling earmarks corrupt, she has suddenly reversed course now that she’s facing a primary challenge. It’s hard to trust a 'foundation' that shifts as soon as an election gets close.
The 15th District is conservative, but we shouldn’t be a rubber stamp for an absentee representative. Republican candidates Judy Bowlby and Ryan Tebrugge actually showed up to listen. In the 15th, we know the difference between a politician seeking a platform and a leader seeking to serve.
This March, let’s choose someone who knows we exist.
Patrick Boylan Homer, Illinois
