Metro East Sun

Illinois House candidate Amy Elik (R-Alton) fully appreciates state Rep. John Cabello’s (R-Machesney Park) drastic approach of requiring all state lawmakers to wear body cameras as a way of fighting corruption in Springfield.

“For years, we've seen corrupt politicians use their positions to enrich themselves,” Elik told the Metro East Sun. “Rep. Cabello's legislation taps into the righteous anger and disgust so many families feel toward the corrupt, Chicago-style politics we see destroying our state.”

House Bill 4605 is Cabello’s response to the spate of scandals playing out in Springfield, including allegations of bribery and a kickback scheme that recently led to the abrupt resignations of two veteran lawmakers. Former state Rep. Luis Arroyo (D-Chicago), who served in the 3rd District from 2006 to 2019, has been formally charged with bribery for allegedly attempting to pay off a sitting state senator in exchange for a favorable vote on a gambling measure.

Illinois House candidate Amy Elik (R-Alton)

“The corrupt status-quo will not change until we hold our elected officials accountable and demand integrity,” said Elik, now challenging incumbent state Rep. Amy Bristow (D-Alton) in the 111th District.

Elik wants to be part of the change she hopes will occur at the state capital.

“I am running to lead the change to reform state government so it works for the people, not the political insiders,” she said. “I'll bring my background as a CPA, where integrity and independence are of the utmost importance, to Springfield to fight for our families.”

Under the guidelines of Cabello’s bill, lawmakers found in violation would be subject to fines. Cabello proposed a similar bill in 2019 that was known as HB 3447.