State Representative Kevin Schmidt running for re-election

Citing his commitment to lower taxes, ethics reform and putting Illinois residents first, State Representative Kevin Schmidt (R-Millstadt) today is announcing his intention to seek a third term in the Illinois Legislature.

“I ran for office to be a voice for the people of this district because the leadership in the House and the Senate are not acting in the best interests of the people of this state,” Schmidt said. “Our state’s leaders continue to put the interests of illegal immigrants and their misguided extreme political priorities ahead of the needs of working people. We can't get money to fix flooding issues in Cahokia Heights, but we have hundreds of millions of dollars to spend on programs and services for illegal immigrants? These are the wrong priorities. I am running again to continue to be a voice for common-sense in the Illinois General Assembly.”

This past spring, State Rep. Kevin Schmidt stood in strong opposition to legislation (House Bill 3527) which bans so-called disability mascots. It only applies to one school – Freeburg High School. The "Midgets" mascot originated in the 1930s when a local sportswriter referred to them as the midgets after they beat an undefeated team despite having a much smaller team. The tallest player on the Freeburg team was 5'10.” The legislation did not reach the Governor’s desk.

“This is welcome news to Freeburg residents who love their mascot and the David versus Goliath story it represents,” Schmidt said. “The legislators pushing the mascot have no connection to Freeburg. They have ZERO understanding of the intent behind the mascot. All they see is a word they don’t like. It is political correctness run wild. For now, common sense has prevailed.”

Schmidt also opposed legislation (Senate Bill 1950) which would legalize physician assisted suicide. The legislation passed the House but did not pass the session.

“What we are witnessing in countries like Canada, which has legalized physician assisted suicide, is a troubling trend where an increasing number of individuals qualify each year for physician-assisted suicide,” Schmidt said. “Many of these individuals are choosing this option despite having the potential for help or lacking any significant physical ailments. Such a disregard for the sanctity of life is alarming. We should be celebrating and preserving life, not extinguishing it. This legislation does not embody compassion; rather, it poses a significant risk to low-income individuals who may feel pressured to consider assisted suicide as an alternative when they cannot afford the essential care they need. This is a dangerous notion, and I will continue to oppose it vigorously.”

Schmidt also supported measures such as Senate Bill 2323 which helps children who have been victims of human trafficking, SB 32, which makes veterans eligible for SNAP benefits, and House Bill 2858, which provides better Medicaid reimbursement rates for nursing home.

“I have and will continue to support veterans,” Schmidt said. “The 114th District is home to thousands of men and women who have bravely served our country in the US Armed Forces. I hope to continue fighting for our veterans and the working men and women who make up the 114th District. I am honored to serve the people of this district, and I humbly ask they continue allowing me to serve.”

Kevin Schmidt is a Board-Certified Chiropractor and the owner of Schmidt Chiropractic in Millstadt. He grew up in Belleville, IL and graduated from Belleville West High School. He was elected State Representative in the 114th District in 2022. He and his wife Laura have two boys, and they reside in Millstadt, IL.

To learn more, visit https://schmidtforil.com/.