The following is the response to a Northern Star questionnaire sent to all local candidates for the 2020 election. Answers have been lightly edited for clarity and consistency.

Name:

Tom Demmer

Occupation:

Illinois State Representative, District 90

Education:

BA Communications, University of Dayton

Position running for:

State Representative, 90th District

Related experience:

Lee County Board 2009-2012

Why are you running:

We hear too often about people leaving Illinois or families finding better opportunities in another state. I was born and raised in Dixon, Illinois, and I want to help improve opportunities here in our hometowns. I believe we have a lot to offer, and I will work with local officials and people from both parties to improve our reputation and brighten our outlook in Illinois.

Goals you want to accomplish if elected:

Bring new jobs and investments to our area, improve access to healthcare for all communities, enact ethics reform to clean up the culture of corruption in Illinois.

Why students/residents should vote for you:

I have a proven track record of reaching across the aisle to work with both Republicans and Democrats on key issues like the state budget, healthcare policy, and job creation.

The Northern Star is publishing the candidates’ responses to our questions as they are given to us. The Northern Star is not endorsing local candidates.