South West Illinois News

State Representative David Friess has provided an update to constituents in Illinois’ 115th District as summer draws to a close. Though the legislature is not currently in session, Friess says his work continues through community events, constituent meetings, and presentations honoring local achievements.

One focus of Friess’s update is the issue of gerrymandering in Illinois. He criticized Governor JB Pritzker’s recent comments about congressional maps and highlighted concerns about partisan redistricting. “Despite once claiming to support an independent redistricting commission, Governor Pritzker went on to sign into law some of the most gerrymandered maps in the nation, maps drawn behind closed doors by his Democratic supermajority. National outlets like The Wall Street Journal have taken notice, pointing out that while Democrats criticize gerrymandering in states like Texas, Illinois politicians are responsible for one of the most partisan maps in the country,” Friess stated. He noted that House Republicans have introduced reform measures such as HJRCA 5 and continue legal challenges against partisan maps. “Citizens should be picking their politicians, not the other way around. I’ll continue fighting for independent redistricting so Illinoisans can finally have the fair representation they deserve,” he said.

Friess also discussed recent district activities, including a series of Coffee Talks held throughout various towns to engage directly with residents on topics such as taxes, energy costs, public safety, and education. These events were hosted in Columbia (June 4), Pinckneyville (June 17), New Athens (August 12), and Waterloo (August 20). “I’m grateful for the strong turnout at each stop and to everyone who took the time to share their thoughts and concerns. These discussions help shape the work I do in Springfield and ensure your voices are heard loud and clear,” he said.

Addressing local infrastructure issues, Friess reported on efforts regarding a scour hole along the Stringtown levee system near Prairie du Rocher. On August 12, he joined State Senator Terri Bryant in urging Governor Pritzker for immediate state intervention and funding to prevent potential flooding. In a letter sent to the governor, Friess wrote: “A failure at this location will be disastrous. It threatens Monroe, Randolph, and surrounding counties. Lives, homes, and farms are at risk. The Governor must direct IEMA to act and fund this now.” He encouraged residents to contact officials for support.

In addition to policy updates, Friess recognized several constituents for notable achievements: Truman Cashman was honored as Randolph County’s oldest WWII veteran; Adam Walker won first place in SIJHSAA Class S Discus; Elsie Logan celebrated her 101st birthday.

Rising electricity bills were another concern addressed by Friess. He noted Ameren’s supply price increase beginning June 1 through September 30 resulted in an estimated average bill hike of about 22%, with some families experiencing greater impacts across Southern Illinois. According to Friess: “To be clear, Ameren does not profit from these supply rates; they pass through wholesale costs. I remain in close contact with Ameren officials to ensure I have the latest information to share with you. The real problem lies with the Democratic majorities in Springfield, whose aggressive energy mandates and policies have driven up costs without considering the financial burden on working families.” He offered assistance navigating utility options.

Friess announced a Fall State Legislative Town Hall scheduled for September 9 in Waterloo focusing on ongoing issues with rural Monroe County’s scour hole.

He concluded by reaffirming his commitment against tax increases proposed by Democrats and advocating for fiscal responsibility, individual freedoms, safer communities, and government transparency within his district.

Friess was elected as a Republican representative for Illinois’ 115th House District in 2023 after replacing Nathan Reitz.