In January 2024, Chicago Sun-Times/WBEZ editors emailed a questionnaire to candidates in contested March 19 primary races for the Illinois General Assembly, requesting biographical information as well as their views on issues ranging from corruption in state politics to Illinois’ longstanding pension crisis. Answers have been lightly edited for typos, minor grammar and consistency in styling, but not for content or length. Age was calculated as of Feb. 6, 2024.
Aris Garcia: Term limits & higher penalties for corruption charges.
Aris Garcia: Reduce new pension debt, defund “stacked” pensions (individuals who receive full pensions from multiple departments or government agencies).
Aris Garcia: Support local manufacturing, repeal 2023 Temp labor act, lower taxes and create special tax cuts for local manufacturing headquartered in Illinois.
Aris Garcia: Yes.
Aris Garcia: Property taxes & the economy as a whole: My office will commission a local property tax task force which will actively seek out taxpayers with refunds available and provide them with instructions on the paperwork required to secure their money. In a time when many families struggle to afford groceries, I will work tirelessly to pressure local officials to lower sales taxes. By responsibly allocating taxes, we can ensure that ordinary residents have more money in their pockets. Nine states have a 0% income tax, and I aspire for Illinois to become the 10th state to achieve this.
Aris Garcia: Because I champion the conservative values that made America the greatest country on earth.
