Lake County Gazette

Republican House candidate Chris Bos is happy to see the courts granted a level of independence from Gov. J.B. Pritzker.

“I’m happy for the ruling that gets the people of this state from under the sole of the governor when it comes to this pandemic,” Bos told the Lake County Gazette. “It’s been too long and the judge clearly found it to be unconstitutional. We have co-branches of government for a reason and we need legislators’ input in times like these as we try to figure out how we can best move forward".

This month, a Clay County judge ruled the governor exceeded his authority by extending his stay-at-home order beyond the initial 30 days without consulting with the legislature.The verdict came in response to a suit filed by fellow state Rep. Darren Bailey (R-Xenia), asserting that the governor had no authority to unilaterally extend the order. The verdict was rendered by the same judge who earlier granted Bailey a temporary restraining order exempting him from the governor’s order.  

Running against incumbent state Rep. Mary Edly-Allen (D-Libertyville) in the 51st District, Bos said it was a long time coming.

“Too many lawmakers have been just sitting by doing whatever the governor demands and it’s come at the expense of the families and businesses of this state,” he said.

Going forward, Bos said he thinks more small business owners may be wise to take their fate in their own hands.

“I think one of the challenges local business owners have to figure out is what would be best for their communities and their customers,” he said. “I think most businesses want to open and operate in a manner that makes their customers feel safe.”

As for Springfield, Bos said lawmakers need to come together and at least put forth guidelines that are clear and actionable.

“We need more legislators thinking and speaking for their local constituents,” he said. “Those are the voices that are needed at the table.”