Friends,

The past two months have been a whirlwind of activity across Illinois’ 15th Congressional District. From parades and fairs to union halls and community meetings, I’ve had the honor of meeting so many of you, listening to your stories, and sharing my vision for a stronger, more united future. Here’s a look back at what we’ve been up to lately:

Connecting with Democrats Across the District

I’ve had the privilege of meeting with county Democratic organizations in Moultrie, Montgomery, Piatt, DeWitt, Adams, Macon, Fayette, Jersey, Madison, McDonough, Coles, Bond, Logan, and beyond. Each stop reinforced the energy, ideas, and commitment that our communities bring to this campaign.

County Fairs, Parades, and Festivals

From the Madison County Fair to the Mansfield Homecoming Parade and Apple Dumpling Festival in Piatt and Douglas Counties, these events reminded me of the importance of showing up, celebrating tradition, and connecting with neighbors. We’ve passed out candy, bandannas, and walk cards... but most importantly, we’ve shared smiles and conversations about the future of our district.

Standing with Labor and Workers

I’ve met with the Iron Workers Local 392, Labor Local 44, and attended the 47th Annual Rich Dulka Mideastern Illinois Labor Council Picnic. Unions have always been vital to supporting working families, and I’m proud to stand with them in the fight for fair wages, safety, and dignity on the job.

Community Recognition

Karin and I were humbled to accept the Local Business Supporting Community Award at the Collinsville Faith in Action annual banquet on behalf of Davis Pet Hospital. From the beginning, we’ve believed that small businesses have a responsibility to give back and support the community that supports them.

Petitions and Ballot Access

We’ve been out walking neighborhoods, gathering signatures, and reconnecting with neighbors. Every door knocked and every signature collected reminds us that campaigns are built by people walking together toward a common goal.

Conversations That Matter

At county fairs, ice cream socials, town halls, and rallies, one theme continues to emerge: people are concerned about the rising costs of housing, food, and healthcare. Our veterans, seniors, and individuals experiencing disabilities or other medical issues in particular are facing growing challenges. These are not partisan issues... they’re human ones. I believe we can, and must, come together to solve them.

Special Moments

Along the way, I’ve had the chance to visit with leaders and friends across the district, including Congresswoman Nikki Budzinski and State Representative Katie Stuart, and to join Governor’s Day at the Illinois State Fair with Democrats from across the state. Karin and I even squeezed in a quick picnic on a park bench at Lake Shelbyville between events - one of the many beautiful spots here in IL-15.

This has been a hot, busy, and inspiring trail... and we’re just getting started! I’m grateful for every handshake, every conversation, and every bit of encouragement.

Thank you for walking this journey with me. Together, we can do better and be better.

See you out on the trail,

Paul