NW Illinois News

SPRINGFIELD – State Representative Bradley Fritts (R-Dixon) has strongly criticized the passage of Senate Bill 2412 through the House, denouncing it as a power grab by the majority party and an interference with the electoral process. Rep. Fritts expressed his concerns about the bill, which he believes will disrupt the current rules for running for legislative office and filling vacancies within political parties.

In a statement, Rep. Fritts said, “Yesterday’s passage of Senate Bill 2412 is yet another sneaky move by the majority party to grab more power and interfere with our electoral process. This bill, which was amended and voted on within hours of filing, will completely upend the current rules we have for running for legislative office and being appointed to fill vacancies by one’s political party.”

Highlighting the implications of the bill, Rep. Fritts emphasized, “The effective date of this bill means that once it is signed into law, political parties will no longer be able to slate candidates to vacancies this election cycle. This means that any candidate currently unopposed on the ballot will have a free pass to their respective office without giving voters any alternative choices.”

Calling out the motives behind the legislation, Rep. Fritts labeled it as a political tactic to disadvantage the minority party. He stated, “This legislation is a blatant political move by the majority to put the minority party in a ‘trick box’.” Rep. Fritts also expressed his frustration with such maneuvers, advocating for a shift towards genuine efforts that benefit the community.

“As a member of the minority party, I was proud to stand with all forty of my colleagues in a unanimous ‘Present’ vote," said Rep. Fritts. "I am tired of the tricks and when one of the countless pieces of legislation filed actually secures elections, empowers families, protects poll workers, and lowers property taxes; I will be a proud supporter. It is time to drop the politics and tricks and work for real results."

For more information about Representative Fritts, visit RepFritts.com.