Senator Chris Balkema

I am proud to represent the 53rd Senate District and will continue fighting in Springfield.

I voted! 🇺🇸 Make sure your voice is heard this Election Day!

Illinois families are already paying too much for electricity, and we cannot afford policies that drive costs even higher. Senate Bill 1235 would help protect reliable energy production, stabilize our electric grid, and keep costs down for Illinois families.

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While delivering the 250 year celebration certificates to the 108 counties in our district, I found a really unique antique Shell gas station in Chatsworth, Illinois!

I enjoyed riding along with Jim and Mike Robbins as they harvested soybeans during a Will County Farm Bureau ride-along! Agriculture is the backbone of our economy, and I’m grateful for the hard work our farmers put in every day. As harvest season wrap ups, everyone stay safe!

I was honored to present Channahon Police Department Police Chief Adam Bogart and his team with the Illinois police memorial picture. Chief Bogart and his team do a wonderful job of keeping the community safe while they put their lives at risk each and every day for us.

I enjoyed touring Watershed Foods and learning more about the company's impressive growth and innovative approach to expanding its operations. Having doubled in size over the past few years, Watershed Foods is continuing to invest in new opportunities and greater efficiency!

It was great to have the opportunity to hear from the Federal Reserve Chairman today and discuss the state of our economy and what it will take to encourage continued growth!

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Great to catch up with Putnam County Sheriff Josh Boedigheimer and recognize the important work of the Putnam County Sheriff's Office-IL. I was proud to present an Illinois Senate Police Memorial plaque in appreciation of Sheriff Boedigheimer and the men and women who serve!

America 250 Across the District! Honored to present the Village of Onarga with an America 250 certificate as we celebrate our nation’s 250th anniversary!

It’s always interesting to get a behind-the-scenes look at the businesses that keep our local economy moving! I recently stopped by 8th Street Welding and Hydraulics in Gibson City, where I got to see firsthand the work happening right here in our communities!

America 250 Across the District! It was great to stop in Paxton and present Mayor Bill Ingold with an America 250 certificate on behalf of the City of Paxton! Mayor Ingold has dedicated roughly two decades to leading Paxton!

Another stop recognizing the men and women who serve our communities every day! I was proud to present the Illinois Senate Police Memorial plaque to the Streator Police Department and thank their officers for the work they do to protect and serve.

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Juvenile crime is rising in Illinois, with arrests jumping 58% in one year. Nearly one-third of youth released from IDJJ custody returned within three years. I support SB 2341 to strengthen public safety and accountability. Illinois needs to take serious crime seriously.

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I recently had the opportunity to tour the Illinois American Water treatment plant in Streator and see firsthand the investments being made to keep our communities’ drinking water safe and reliable.

Great visit to Graphic Electronics in Spring Valley! I really enjoyed learning about the history behind this local business and hearing how it has grown through three generations of the same family.