SE Illinois News

Championed as someone who “understands the challenges facing Illinois’ small businesses,” Lisa Ciampoli has received the endorsement of the National Federation of Independent Businesses and the Associated Builders Contractors in her run for state representative  in the 112th District.

“I’m proud to have the endorsement of small businesses and builders,” Ciampoli said. “I am running for state representative to create a more business friendly environment in the state.”

NFIB state director Mark Grant intimated that the 75-year-old nonpartisan organization’s decision to throw its support behind Ciampoli was an easy one.

“Lisa understands the challenges facing Illinois’ small businesses and will do everything she can to create and maintain an environment where small businesses can grow and create jobs,” he said.

Ciampoli, who is running against incumbent Katie Stuart (D-Edwardsville), has wasted little time in making her voice heard on the campaign trial, recently blasting Gov. J.B. Pritzker over his proposed progressive tax hike. Despite the governor continuing to insist the tax he has advocated for since his days as a candidate will only mean higher rates for the state’s wealthiest residents, Ciampoli isn’t buying it. 

“Illinoisans have had enough of Springfield’s high taxes,” she recently posted on Facebook. “Remember that my opponent has proven time and again that she will only support the views of her colleagues in Chicago and Springfield. It’s time we have a voice that represents Southern Illinois and its values.”

The tax proposal is slated to appear on the ballot next month in the form of a referendum question where 60% of those who vote on the issue or a majority of those who vote in the election overall is needed for passage.

Associated Builders and Contractors is an organization of 400 companies in the commercial and industrial construction markets in Illinois.