Lake County Gazette

Ken Idstein thinks desperate times call for desperate measures.

“My most recent endorsement is from a long-time friend, Paul Yingling, who just so happens to be my opponent’s uncle," Idstein, who is running for the seat held by Rep. Sam Yingling (D-Grayslake) in the 62nd District, recently told the Lake County Gazette. “Even he is ready for change in Springfield, and he believes that I am the best candidate to make that change.”

Idstein looks at how voters are fleeing the state in droves and knows something has to happen to stem the tide of out-migration.

Ken Idstein

Recent Census Bureau data show that from July 2016 to July 2017, 115,000 people left Illinois on net to other states, and since 2010 that number swells to nearly 643,000 residents.

The Illinois Policy Institute estimates that equates to a rate of about 1 person every 4.6 minutes and marks the fourth straight year Illinois has experienced a population decline.

“We need to consolidate duplicative units of government and look for alternatives to fund schools to reduce the burden of property taxes,” Idstein said.

He added his message to voters is starting to take hold, and he is optimistic about his chances.

“Our campaign is going excellent,” he said. He previously told the Lake County Gazette he is further motivated by the idea of more former residents feeling comfortable enough about the retooled direction of the state to make a return.

 “I’m running to bring opportunities back to Illinois so our friends, family, and neighbors can come home," he said.

Idstein also recently took to Facebook, where he vowed to do all he can to return Illinois to the days of being a more pro-business state.

“I am going to make Illinois a friendlier environment for businesses and taxpayers,” he wrote. “I love Lake County and I love Illinois. I grew up here, I raised my family here and I started my business here. I’m going to stay and fight for my constituents."

The 62nd House District includes parts of Grayslake, the Round Lake communities, Hainesville, Wauconda and Gurnee.