Metro East Sun

When it comes to fair maps, Amy Elik is hoping to insure that November’s general election boils down to the will of the people.

“Legislative redistricting is one of the most important issues that must be put to voters in November,” Elik (R-Alton), who is running against incumbent state Rep. Monica Bristow (D-Alton) in the 111th District, told the Metro East Sun. “Citizens deserve to have a nonpartisan commission draw the legislative maps for the entire state. The constitutional amendment allowing an independent commission, increasing transparency and having public hearings is overwhelmingly popular with Illinois citizens and should be a nonpartisan issue.”

With a recent CHANGE Illinois survey showing that voters support the proposed measure by more than 80%, Elik argues the time to strike on the issue is now. To miss a May 3 deadline for advancing the legislation is to not have another chance for passage until the next U.S. Census in 2030.

“Without fair maps, Illinois residents are subject to the rules made by one party, which decreases fair representation for all,” Elik said. “For too long, this process has been controlled by the powerful Chicago Democrats, who draw the boundaries of districts to maintain their control over the Legislature.”

Elik said she’s convinced the current process discourages participation in the way it saps potential candidates into feeling they have no chance against deeply entrenched candidates lording over districts where the gerrymandered odds have been stacked in their favor.

“The power to draw the maps must be put in the hands of a nonpartisan commission and the process must be fair, open, and transparent for all citizens to have fair representation,” she said.