Fall 2026 District Survey

First Name

Last Name

Home Address

Street 1 Street 2 City State Zip

Cell Phone () -

Email Address*

1. In your opinion, what is the number one issue the General Assembly needs to address immediately?

2. My office can often help when a constituent has an issue with a state agency or other units of government. Are there any issues where we could be of assistance?

3. The latest Illinois budget is the largest in history and includes $800 million in tax increases and one-time budget gimmicks. Do you believe Illinois should cut spending and live within its means before asking families to pay higher taxes?

Yes, the state should cut spending before raising taxes on families

Maybe, depending on what the spending is for

No, I support the current spending levels even if it means higher taxes

4. Do you support nuclear energy?

Yes

No

5. When it comes to data centers, what’s most important to you? (Check all that apply)

Economic development

Protecting local resources

Maintaining local control

6. What best describes your view on Second Amendment rights in Illinois? (Check all that apply)

Illinois already has too many restrictions on gun ownership

I support protecting the right to legally own and carry firearms, including commonly owned rifles

I support additional restrictions, like stronger background checks, waiting periods, and an assault weapon ban

7. Do you consider yourself pro-life or pro-choice?

Pro-life

Pro-choice

8. What is your biggest financial pressure right now? (Check all that apply.)

Grocery and household costs

Childcare or after-school care

Healthcare or prescriptions

Gas and utility bills

Property taxes

College or student loans

Saving for retirement

Other (please specify)

If you chose 'Other,' specify here:

9. What are the most important issues facing your family? (Check all that apply.)

High taxes and cost of living

Crime and public safety

Education and parental rights

Job opportunities and economic growth

Government spending and waste

Roads, traffic, and infrastructure

Immigration and border security

Other (please specify)

If you chose 'Other,' specify here:

10. What concerns you most about education in Illinois?

Declining academic performance

Lack of curriculum transparency

Teacher shortages

Not enough career/vocational training

Unequal funding across schools

Support to homeschool my children

11. How confident are you about staying in Illinois long term?

Very confident – I see a future here

Somewhat confident – But the cost of living is a concern

Not confident – I’ve considered leaving

12. Do you have any additional comments or concerns you’d like to share?

13. Would you like to subscribe to Senator Balkema’s weekly e-newsletters?*

YesNo