Kendall County Times

Scott Gryder, Kendall County board chairman, won the five-way Republican primary for U.S. House Illinois District 14.

He will face incumbent Democratic Rep. Lauren Underwood in November.

"To all who gave their precious time, resources and votes, thank you!" Gryder posted on Facebook. "Because of your support, our campaign for the future of Illinois’ 14th Congressional District continues. Lauren Underwood is in trouble because we are in the grips of the worst economy in over 40 years. With gas, groceries, medicine, rent and everything else skyrocketing in price, the results of this primary show people are concerned and focused on the rising cost of everyday necessities."  

He defeated James Marter, Mike Koolidge, Jack Lombardi II and Jaime Milton.

"We need to change course, away from the failing policies and leadership Joe Biden and his allies in Congress like Lauren Underwood are offering, toward pro-growth, pro-family, pro-freedom policies backed by leaders who know how to get the job done," Gryder said. "While honored to be nominated as your messenger of change as we carry on toward Nov. 8, this election was a win for the hard-working people of the 14th District who need real relief, not more of the same."  

With about 80% of the votes counted in the 14th district, Gryder leads the Republican primary with about 31% of the vote. While some of his opponents made appeals to the nationalist wing of the GOP, Gryder stayed away from conspiracy theories and focused on the issues everyday Americans face, particularly the rising cost of living, the Daily Herald reported.

Gryder is in full support of the Second Amendment. He has in fact, as Kendall County board chairman, championed a resolution supporting it and has pledged to continue protecting the community when seated at Congress. Funding the police as an avenue to ensure the community's safety is also one of his positions. He recognizes China as a threat and suggests that the U.S. military needs superior training and equipment in traditional and cyber warfare. Gryder vows to restore fiscal responsibility and pursue a pro-growth policy to unleash the power of the American economy. Additionally, he supports healthcare reform through encouraging preventative care, increased access to provider services and competition in health-plan markets.

National Republican Congressional Committee (NRCC) chairman Tom Emmer congratulated Gryder on his primary victory.

“Congratulations to Scott Gryder on his primary win," Emmer said. "Come November, Illinois voters will remember that Lauren Underwood is directly responsible for Democrats’ radical agenda that is making everyday life more expensive for Illinois families.”