Madison County Board member Erica Harriss is running on the Republican ticket for Illinois Senate in the 56th District, saying it’s time to lower taxes and offer “practical solutions” to the problems that plague Illinois.
“One lesson I have learned on the Madison County Board is that legislating requires standing up for what is right, confronting bad ideas directly, and working closely with people you may disagree with, regardless of party, to move the ball in the right direction,” Harriss said. “When was the last time Springfield worked like that?”
Harriss is running against Democrat incumbent Rachelle Crowe.
Although Crowe is seeking re-election to the state senate seat, she is also currently on the short list for U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Illinois. If re-elected and then selected for the U.S. Attorney position, her vacancy would be filled by a Democrat at the discretion of party leaders. Voters wouldn't get to weigh in until a subsequent general election.
Harriss said she is thankful for the opportunity to represent and improve the community by transforming "complex issues into practical solutions."
“The proposed solution by those currently in power to restore Illinois is to raise taxes, shut down energy supplies, take local power and freedoms away, and increase regulations; more of the same failing policies,” she said.
Those “failing policies” have resulted in population declines, loss of business, higher taxes, and increased power bills.
“It’s time that an alternative voice represents Illinois,” Harriss said.
“What I hear from many people who live in the Metro East is anxiety and disgust with what is going on with our state,” she added. “The taxes, the crime, the cost of living and the frustration with corruption in Springfield is driving families out of Illinois. I know many people who have left and will be missed. This is a negative trend because every family that leaves our state under these circumstances is a loss to our economy and our community.”
Harriss said she wants to see the Metro East “thrive, attract jobs, and continue to grow as a prosperous and diverse region.”
Harriss added that the people need to know their elected officials will stand up to corruption, gerrymandering, special interests and even individuals in their own party when the other officials are wrong.
“It is important to have confidence that local law enforcement can apprehend and convict criminals without interference from the state so our families can live in safety. Businesses need to know that they can continue to operate without being taxed or regulated out of existence. Our children need to go to schools where parents are comfortable with how children are being educated and teachers’ efforts are applauded.”
Harriss was born and raised in Madison County, where she is currently raising her own family. She graduated from Edwardsville High School and Southern Illinois University.
“This community is where I was born, went to school, started my business, and am raising my own children,” she said. “I want it to be even better for them, but we are not heading in the right direction.”
As a small business owner and founder of Saving Grace Beauty LLC, Harriss said she first ran for the Madison County Board’s 26th District after seeing the problems faced by the Illinois government and believing her skills and experiences would be an asset. She was elected to the seat in November 2016 and was re-elected in November 2020. She serves as chairperson of the Institutions and Personnel committees. She also serves on the Finance, Government Relations, Grants and Executive committees.
“It has been my pleasure serving these last five years on the Madison County Board,” Harriss said. “I look forward to continuing the legacy of being an advocate for the taxpayer, opposing wasteful spending, and making wise choices for our community at the state level.”