Kendall County Times

State Sen. Jim Oberweis (R-Sugar Grove) views his vast business experience as just what’s needed in Springfield as the state seeks to battle back from the crippling affects the coronavirus crisis.

“We need leaders in Congress who understand economics and who can help bring our state back,” Oberweis told the DuPage Policy Journal. “I have started several companies and lived through recessions and economic downturns; I understand what motivates entrepreneurs and business people to risk their time, energy and capital to create jobs and opportunities for people. That experience will be needed moving forward."

Oberweis, now running against U.S. Rep. Lauren Underwood (D-Naperville) in the 14th Congressional District, argues there isn’t a moment to lose as evidenced by the findings in a new WalletHub.com survey that concludes Illinois ranks near the top of state economies most vulnerable to the deadly virus.

The rankings were based on variables ranging from “high impact for industries and workforce” and “resources for businesses” that might help in coping with the crisis.

"Illinois families are already feeling the economic impact of the COVID-19 virus and the road to recovery will likely be long and difficult,” Oberweis said.

The veteran lawmaker won the Republican primary last month with 26% of the vote, emerging from a crowded GOP field that included fellow Republican state Sen. Sue Rezin of Elmhurst and former Kendall County Chairman James Marter.

Oberweis recently threw his support behind a letter that a battery of Republican lawmakers sent to Gov. J.B. Pritzker urging him to “kick-start” the state’s economic comeback by freezing unemployment insurance rates and the state’s minimum wage for at least the next year.

“We do need to be mindful of what is happening to businesses across the state,” he said. “Through no fault of their own, businesses have been shut down and real people are hurting and wondering how they are going to pay their mortgage and other bills.”