Lisa Ciampoli, a local nurse anesthetist and former Madison County Board member, today announced her campaign as a Republican for state representative of the 112th District.
She was slated to the seat by Madison County GOP chairman Ray Wesley, but also went through the same process as every other candidate for state representative by having collected petition signatures and filed them with the State Board of Elections. According to a campaign spokesperson, Ciampoli was required to file with 500 valid signatures, but collected more than 1,100.
Ciampoli, 58, of Collinsville, is a certified registered nurse anesthetist. She served on the Madison County Board from 2010 to 2018, and as chairwoman of the Finance Committee from 2016 to 2018.
“As a nurse anesthetist, I’ve dedicated my life to advocating for and serving patients in the operating room so they can live a happy and healthy life,” Ciampoli said in an announcement of her candidacy. “Unfortunately, when it comes to politicians in Springfield, many Illinoisans don’t have a representative who cares about putting their constituents’ interests first."
Ciampoli will face Democrat incumbent Katie Stuart, 49, who is serving her second term.
“Like many in my community, I’m tired of the corruption, reckless spending, and taxing," Ciampoli said. "Voters are fed up with the self-serving politicians who give themselves a pay raise while Illinois families struggle amid COVID-19. Much like my time as a nurse, in Springfield, I’ll never forget who I am serving and will always put the needs of my community ahead of mine.”
Ciampoli's announcement criticizes Stuart for having twice voted to increase pay for lawmakers, and for voting for an unbalanced budget that includes "record spending, more borrowing, and no reforms."
"This unbalanced budget will force massive tax hikes at a time when local families can least afford them," the announcement says.