These responses were submitted by Kenneth R. Allison, the Libertarian candidate for the 88th House District. See more candidate responses.
Why do you want to represent the 88th House District?
The State of Illinois is corrupt. We need legislators that understand importance of trust and transparency.
COVID-19 will be part of our lives in 2021 and beyond. What should be the next General Assembly’s top priorities related to the pandemic?
Advocate for a truly independent audit, by an outside third party nongovernmental entity, such as a Certified Public Accounting firm. The reason for this: The State of Illinois is divided. The people of Illinois demand the truth and expect transparency.
No one can agree on the actual status of our State much less the Nation. It's time we put this in the hands of an unbiased entity to really provide the truth.
Do you think support shifting to a progressive/graduated income tax? Why or why not?
It's important to note that this voter issue is about changing the Illinois Constitution. If we can change the Constitution for this, then it can be changed for anything.
But to be clear. Changing from a flat tax structure to a progressive tax structure will ONLY serve to increase outmigration leaving an ever eroding tax base. As that tax base erodes, there are less people to tax. Thereby, over the long term, tax rates will be increased on all of us.
What additional measures can the next General Assembly take to spur economic development, specifically the small businesses and entrepreneurs?
Say no to the progressive tax structure and never talk about it again.
Illinois public schools are currently funded in large part by local property taxes. Should that school funding model continue, or would you like to see changes?
I would like to see changes.
Should Illinois have term limits for lawmakers and/or legislative leaders? Why or why not?
It's a popular discussion point. I would like to see full background checks on every member of the General Assembly so that the average taxpayer knows exactly what they are paying for. Those background checks will be used to identify areas of self dealing.
This summer has shown us again that racism and discrimination is alive and well in the U.S. What should be the state government’s role in addressing it?
The state government needs to provide guidance and resources to the local governments. The state government should be there for support, not fanning flames.
What additional ethics reform measures would you support in the next General Assembly?
As I said previously, each member of the General Assembly needs to have a full background check performed independently to uncover self dealing. The state of Illinois has allowed corruption to grow unmitigated.
Quality childcare is expensive and can be hard to find. What additional steps should the General Assembly take to make quality childcare more accessible to working parents?
Tax credits for working moms.
WGLT depends on financial support from users to bring you stories and interviews like this one. As someone who values experienced, knowledgeable, and award-winning journalists covering meaningful stories in central Illinois, please consider making a contribution.