MILLSTADT, Ill. – Two Illinois House Democrats have recently come under scrutiny for corruption and ethics violations, and State Representative Kevin Schmidt (R-Millstadt) is standing up and demanding transparency, accountability, and protection for victims. Schmidt says Illinois lawmakers have a duty to represent their constituents with honesty and professionalism.
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"Members of the Illinois General Assembly must be held to the highest ethical standards," said Schmidt. "Unfortunately, a pattern of corruption and ethical violations have riddled the House Democratic caucus, and the people of Illinois deserve answers. I support legislation that will hold lawmakers accountable and clean up Springfield."
According to a Chicago Tribune report, House Speaker Emmanuel "Chris" Welch’s office slow-walked taking action regarding harassment allegations against disgraced former State Representative Harry Benton in 2023. As stated by the former staffer, the allegations were not met with meaningful action.
On July 7, criminal indictments were filed against State Representative Carol Ammons. These charges include wire fraud, making false statements to the FBI, and obstruction charges, as well as receiving alleged personal cash kickbacks. The case is ongoing.
Rep. Schmidt cosponsors strong policy reforms that will hold public officials accountable for ethics violations:
HB 1382 : Allows Legislative Inspector General to issue subpoenas without prior approval and requires the Executive and Legislative Ethics Commissions to release the reports to the public
HB 1554 : Prohibits use of campaign funds for a criminal defense related to misconduct in capacity as a public official, any claims of sexual harassment, or any claims of discrimination
HB 1727 : Suspends pension benefits to public officials if they’re charged with a felony connected to their public service, and permanently withholds these funds upon conviction
Representative Kevin Schmidt represents the 114th District, which includes a portion of St. Clair County.
