Kane County Reporter

Heather Brown, a candidate for Illinois State Senate District 25, has voiced her staunch opposition to proposals advocating for the voting rights of illegal immigrants, emphasizing that such initiatives could potentially undermine the rights of citizens. Historically, the privilege of voting has been exclusive to American citizens.

“For any other people wanting me to fill out their surveys ‘allowing illegal immigrants the right to vote for school boards’... this is a scam on voting verbiage,” Brown said.

“This would put any illegal immigrant into our system and allow them to vote in ANY election cycle. It would not be a provisional ballot with one itemized vote.”

Further elaborating on her Facebook post, Brown stated, "This is a lie to the citizens of our State, and any other State that is attempting to phrase this right now for the upcoming election(s)." She warned that such measures could potentially enable unconstitutional control by what she referred to as "the socialist far left Democratic Party by the millions allowed into our country." Brown concluded her remarks by saying, "I’m sorry but this is not right to our Citizens."

In response to concerns about voting rights, U.S. Representative Rodney Davis (R-Ill.) has introduced a resolution titled "Recognizing that allowing illegal immigrants the right to vote devalues the franchise and diminishes the voting power of United States citizens." The resolution underscores the crucial role of voting in maintaining a functioning democracy while emphasizing constitutional prohibitions against discrimination based on various factors. Davis expresses concern about potential threats to U.S. elections' legitimacy, particularly from foreign interference and unlawful voting.

The resolution highlights specific instances such as San Francisco, California's decision to permit non-citizens, including illegal immigrants, to register for school board elections. It also mentions New York City's law allowing non-citizens to participate in local elections for positions like mayor and city council. The resolution stresses the constitutional and federal law provisions that bar non-citizens from participating in federal office elections. If passed, it would formally acknowledge that granting voting rights to illegal immigrants and non-citizens compromises the electoral process's integrity and diminishes U.S. citizens' voting power.

Brown currently serves as the Ward 2 Alderman in West Chicago, where she is known for her seven-year tenure and ability to bridge political divides. She has a track record of consistently voting "No" on levies, reflecting her commitment to fiscal conservatism. Brown's principled stance extends to opposing water rate increases, demonstrating her dedication to responsible financial decisions that prioritize the community’s well-being, according to her website.

The State Senate District 25 is presently represented by State Sen. Karina Villa (D-West Chicago). The district encompasses all or parts of Aurora, North Aurora, Batavia, West Chicago, South Elgin, Wayne, and Bartlett. Villa holds the distinction of being the first Latina to represent District 25, as per her website.