Kane County Reporter

Tonia Khouri of Aurora wants to take her tax-saving prowess to Springfield.

Khouri, a DuPage County Board member who touts her work to save taxpayers more than $100 million by cutting the budget by $36.5 million over six years, has entered the House race for the 49th District.

“As a DuPage County Board member, I have never voted for a tax increase,” Khouri told the Kane County Reporter, adding that reforms can mean big savings. “That’s how you balance a budget: by cutting spending and reforming how government operates."

Tonia Khouri

Khouri said politics is personal for her, thanks in part to what she learned from her husband, Joe, whose Lebanese Christian background enlightened her to the struggles of Christians in the Middle East.

“Seven years ago, Joe and I were building a business and raising a family when we learned about our Christian brothers and sisters in the Middle East who were being murdered, beheaded and tortured for their faith,” Khouri said. “I had to take action, so we gathered our three children, loaded them in the family car and traveled the country lobbying for a bill that would protect these Christians from persecution.”

Khouri said she was overwhelmed by the response, as the bill was met with widespread support.

“Although our government is big, when we have the courage to stand up, stand together and take action, we can make a difference,” Khouri said.

Khouri credits her children for her day-to-day inspiration, as well as icons like Margaret Thatcher and Mother Teresa.

“I am passionate about advancing the free enterprise system and using this system to help people break free from poverty,” Khouri said, adding that she strives to make the biggest impact that can improve the lives of those around her.

Khouri lives in Aurora with her husband of 25 years and their three children.

Incumbent Rep. Mike Fortner (R-West Chicago), who currently represents the 49th District, has decided not to seek re-election.