Davis Files Measure to Allow Local Leaders to Offset Costs of Security Amidst Rise in Violent Threats

CHICAGO — State Rep. Lisa Davis, D-Chicago, is introducing new reforms to ensure political violence and threats against elected leaders doesn’t prevent good people from seeking office by allowing candidates for office to use campaign funds to offset security costs at their homes and offices.

“The current political environment is full of divisive rhetoric and incendiary statements that have inspired horrific violence,” said Davis. “Those who answer the call to run for office and uplift their community should not have to live in fear.”

High-profile incidents of political violence and extreme rhetoric have resulted in a dramatic increase in threats against state and local officials and candidates—the vast majority of whom have no special security protection. Davis is working to ensure that the volatile environment does not prevent good candidates from seeking office by filing House Bill 4131, which would allow candidates to use the money raised for their campaigns to also be spent on home and office security measures. Davis was inspired to file the bill in response to recent high-profile examples of political violence such as the assassination of former Minnesota House Speaker Melissa Hortman and her husband.

“Many of my colleagues, on both sides of the aisle, have mentioned to me how they have received threats from disgruntled individuals who have promised to commit heinous acts against them, their families or staff,” said Davis. “People who want to serve put themselves out there, but those who are out in their communities every day don’t receive the same protection we see around presidents and governors. It would be wrong if we had fewer choices because people who want to make sure their neighbors are heard are prevented from protecting their loved ones in this charged environment.”