Will County Gazette

Senate District 19 candidate Samantha Gasca expressed concerns about Illinois transforming into a sanctuary state, citing legislative events such as Gov. Bruce Rauner’s 2017 signing of the TRUST Act (SB 31) and the 2021 “Illinois Way Forward” Act (SB 667) signed by Gov. J.B. Pritzker. She questions the motives behind these changes, suggesting potential manipulation of electoral votes and expressing worries about a hidden agenda and outlined a “trail of events” that have led Illinois to the position it is currently in.

“Many of the Democratic Party leaders/elected officials are beyond corrupt (this happens in all parties; however, observe who is in charge, then observe the current circumstances),” Gasca said. “We the People CAN elect new officials: people who truly care in their hearts about you and your family.”

“It is time for us to take a stand, take action in a way that is right (if you don’t know how, just ask), and use extreme discernment when it comes to voting. We CAN fight back peacefully. We CAN use our backbone and take a stance against this disgusting display of self-interest.”

“The goal here is not to produce fear; it is for the purpose of demonstrable action-taking and eye-opening,” Gasca further stated in her Facebook post. “I committed to use my 14 years of college to put things together in such a way that we see trends and can put 2-and-2 together.”

“Therefore, I am calling on our Governor, Mr. Pritzker, and EQUALLY, our Senator Mr. Michael Hastings, for answers as to why they are voting on and passing laws that are against the will of the people, and are clearly unconstitutional. We demand answers and a detailed plan of action… it should be transparent, clear (not a bunch of jargon/strategic manipulation of rhetoric to confuse everyone and come across vague so they can continue to slither into loopholes to commit treason), concise, and without political rhetoric that elevates themselves above us, the People.”

John Biver from the Illinois Family Institute discussed Illinois' transformation into a sanctuary state through Senate Bill 31 (SB 31), initially known as the "Trust Act" and criticized the transformation, arguing that it aligns with leftist goals of welcoming future Democratic Party voters and highlights the strategic use of language in such legislative maneuvers. Contrary to claims of the change being mere semantics, the amended bill now explicitly prohibits law enforcement from detaining individuals based solely on immigration status without a judicial warrant or probable cause of criminal activity. The removal of specific facility-related language from the original version makes the law more broadly applicable. Despite attempts to downplay its sanctuary status, the essence of SB 31 remains consistent in hindering state and local law enforcement from enforcing immigration laws.

With a diverse background spanning radio, counseling and business, Gasca has made significant contributions to various domains. Since March 2018, she has been actively engaged as the Radio Program Content Coordinator and Data Analyst at Moody Radio. Gasca extends her commitment to fostering positive change through the ownership and operation of God Heard LLC, a multifaceted platform established in July 2021, according to her LinkedIn profile. Through this venture, she offers pastoral counseling, life coaching, and business consulting services, thereby expanding her influence in these interconnected fields.

Senate District 19 is currently being represented by Michael Hastings (D-Frankfort). It 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, according to the State Senate District 19 map on Ballotpedia.