Will County Gazette

Samantha Gasca a candidate running for the Illinois Senate District 19 recently noted that the character of a candidate is more important than the party with which they are affiliated.

Gasca’s said the importance of maintaining the integrity of her name and only signing petitions for candidates she genuinely endorses reflects her commitment to honesty and transparency in the political process.

“People have different views on petition signing,” Gasca said on Facebook.

“Some people feel as long as a candidate is a Republican, then sign the petition/no questions asked (since a signature to both a Democrat and Republican candidate on separate petitions will be stricken for both, one can only legally sign petitions for one party within a single election period)— regardless of whether we support that candidate or not. I am not of the same opinion.”

“I was raised in a way that all I had to call my own was my name… so it means something to me. I will not provide my signature for a candidate that I do not support. My name, Samantha Jean Gasca, means quite a bit to me and I will not sacrifice the integrity/honesty of it by signing something I don’t support, something that doesn’t align with my values, or is shady/manipulative in their dealings. However, I’m open to change my map given an adequate and more godly attitude/stance.”

“Everyone is free to have their own opinions and think what they think/why they think it… what’s yours?”

Gasca’s platform includes a focus on embracing Illinois’ heritage and championing a prosperous and inclusive future for all residents. She also emphasizes the importance of putting people first, building economic opportunities by promoting entrepreneurship and job creation, and prioritizing accessible healthcare, education excellence, and safer streets.

“Illinois is a state blessed with a rich history, diverse communities, and untapped potential. From the rolling farmlands to the bustling urban centers, it’s time for us to come together to build a prosperous, inclusive, and sustainable future for every resident of this state,” she said on her campaign website.

Gasca has been a Radio Program Content Coordinator and Data Analyst at Moody Radio since March 2018. She is the owner and operator of God Heard LLC and has been involved in pastoral counseling, life coaching, and business consulting at their own company since July 2021. Gasca also works as a Pastoral Counselor and Life Coach at NuWell Counseling, according to her LinkedIn profile.

Senate District 19 includes all or parts of Lockport, New Lenox, Mokena, Orland Park, Tinley Park, Frankfort, Frankfort Square, Homer Glen, Joliet, Richton Park, University Park, Matteson, Homewood, Flossmoor, Park Forest, Olympia Fields, Country Club Hills, Hazel Crest, Markham and Oak Forest.

District 19 is currently being represented by Michael Hastings (D-Frankfort).