Friends,

Welcome to the Homefront!

Back in the day, the word referred to the activities of a nation while its armed forces were engaged in conflict—all the domestic effort that supports a battle, so to speak.

It felt pretty fitting to use that word for this newsletter. After all, political campaigns do feel like a battlefield most days! But as Darren’s wife, it’s my job to keep him grounded and well-fed so he can focus on saving Illinois from another J.B. Pritzker administration.

My hope is that this newsletter will give you insight into my little corner of the campaign. 

I’ll talk a bit about how I see the issues, but you’ll mainly find fun bits and pieces that give you a glimpse into our lives. From cups of coffee at small businesses to uplifting stories, I hope this newsletter feels like a breath of fresh air.

I’m so glad you’re here! ♥️

Blessings,

Cindy Bailey

There’s a lot on people’s minds under J.B. Pritzker’s governorship, but I hear time and time again that gas prices are at the top of the list. 

While other states are looking for ways to ease the burden, J.B. Pritzker is raising Illinois fuel taxes on July 1. Are you surprised!? It's easy to hike taxes when you're a billionaire who won’t have to feel the squeeze. 🙄

On the other hand, Darren will suspend the gas tax for six months when he’s in office, and he also plans to repeal every hike Pritzker signed into law. 

It’s time for Illinoisans to get much-needed relief at the pump, and my husband is ready to deliver!

Credit: Forest Preserve District of Kane County

After nearly 200 years, Bison returned to Illinois back in December—what a blessing! Thanks to the work of the American Indian Center, six bison stepped back onto their homeland in Kane County for the first time in more than a century. But here’s the surprise: One of them had a little secret! A precious little calf was born this month, raising hopes that this is just the beginning of an incredible conservation effort for the Prairie State. 

You know by now that I love a hot cup of coffee, especially at a family-owned small business where you can feel good about where you’re spending your hard-earned money. I’m here to tell you: Joe Sippers Cafe in Effingham is one of those places. Head over there for a hand-brewed cup of coffee and delicious food made with quality ingredients like local stone-ground flour, local free-range eggs, all-natural deli meats. These are the types of businesses that make our state so special!

"The Lord is near to the brokenhearted and saves the crushed in spirit."

Psalm 34:18

If there’s one thing I’ve learned this year, it’s that God doesn’t abandon you in your darkest moments. On the contrary, he will draw you closer to him in a way you’ve never experienced before. If you’re going through tough times, I want you to know that He sees you, He loves you, and He and will walk with you each step of the way.

How long has Illinois been YOUR home? 

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