Rep. Walker Takes Oath, Calls for Bipartisanship and Mutual Cooperation to Move State Forward

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – State Rep. Mark Walker, D-Arlington Heights, issued the following statement after Wednesday’s inauguration:

“After years of bitter partisanship, today marks the beginning of an opportunity to work in good faith toward creating a better Illinois that all families deserve.

Our state needs to grow and expand its middle class. That is why I will be supportive of efforts that focus on small businesses, invest in higher education and give our teachers the tools they need to help every child reach their potential. While making sure our schools have the resources they need, we have to look at ways of streamlining government and stopping the skyrocketing rise of property taxes that are hurting too many families.

“We cannot stand by as tragedies from gun violence continue to shake communities across our country. It will be critically important to stand up to the NRA and the gun lobby as we look at ways to curb gun violence and prevent the next mass shooting from happening here at home.

“Protecting access to health care for residents of all ages will also be prioritized. This includes standing strong against misguided attempts to strip women’s access to health care and their ability to make their own, personal decisions about their health.

“Although the state faces challenges on the road ahead, we must put aside partisan rhetoric and focus on representing the voice of our communities as we build a better state for all residents.”