Marian Johns Stories | Will County Gazette

Benford: Jobs, economic opportunity will stop exodus from Illinois

By Marian Johns | May 31, 2018

As a recently released U.S. Census Bureau report shows that Chicago's population continues to drop for the third year in a row, the Republican candidate for Illinois House District 98 says a lack of job and economic opportunities are what is driving people away from the state.

Laib to host fundraiser for campaign to unseat incumbent Walsh in the 86th House District

By Marian Johns | Apr 17, 2018

Rick Laib, Republican candidate for the 86th House District, will soon kick off his first fundraiser for the general election.

Batinick says Exelon bailout bill had many problems

By Marian Johns | Mar 29, 2018

The controversial bailout of Exelon by Illinois taxpayers has come to the forefront again in the wake of the recent primaries and a recent article in Crain's Chicago Business about a former top Exelon executive revealing the company's lobbying power.

Proposed school funding hike would fuel Illinois exodus, Balich says

By Marian Johns | Feb 13, 2018

As Illinois State Superintendent of Education Tony Smith calls for a $50 billion increase in public school funding for next year, Will County Board candidate Steve Balich is criticizing the idea, saying yet another state tax increase would continue to allow seniors and those on a fixed budget to have their income "legally stolen."

McDermed refused to vote for 'booby-trapped' budget

By Marian Johns | Jul 10, 2017

Rep. Margo McDermed (R-Mokena) decried the recently passed state budget as "booby-trapped" in her explanation to constituents as to why she voted against it.

Olsen says Democrats decided tax hikes were best route

By Marian Johns | Jul 10, 2017

Rep. David Olsen (R-Downers Grove) told his constituents via a letter on his website that he was disappointed in the Legislature for passing a new budget that raised taxes once again on Illinoisans.