Illinois Valley Times

Liandro Arellano believes that the best way to serve the people of Illinois is to ensure the right politicians are in office, including Rep. Jeanne Ives (R-Wheaton), who is considering a primary run against Gov. Rauner.

"Jeanne Ives is a proven advocate of the taxpayers, and she has been a strong voice in support of common sense reforms," Arellano told Illinois Valley Times. "I think she is the better choice for anyone who is truly committed to protecting taxpayers and protecting the sanctity of life."

Arellano is the mayor of Dixon and is seeking the Illinois Senate seat in the 45th District. He is staunchly against abortion and was upset by Rauner's enactment of a law that guaranteed taxpayer-funded abortions to women on Medicaid and state insurance.

Liandro Arellano | Courtesy of Liandro Arellano

"I understand that many Republicans have been enamored with Rauner's money, but I'll be voting my values in the gubernatorial primary by supporting Jeanne," Arellano said. 

Arellano said that during his election efforts, many have made it clear that they feel the same way.

"I've been doing quite a bit of door-to-door campaigning, and a number of the Republican voters and activists I've met are very disappointed in Gov. Rauner's support of taxpayer-funded abortions," Arellano said.

He also argues that Rauner has proven to be weak in his reform agenda.

"The voters are disappointed in the governor's inability to effectively counter (House Speaker Michael) Madigan and his tax increases, despite a budget stalemate that lasted years," Arellano said.

Arellano vowed to support taxpayers by protecting them from unfair tax increases, and he said Ives would do the same.

Arellano is running for the seat currently held by Rep. Tim Bivins (R-Dixon), who is retiring.

The 45th District covers all or part of Carroll, DeKalb, JoDaviess, LaSalle, Lee, Ogle, Stephenson, Whiteside and Winnebago counties.