Lake County Gazette

Lake County State's Attorney candidate Mary Cole addressed the pro-Palestine protests that took place in Congressman Brad Schneider's neighborhood in the early hours of June 29. "I stand firmly against antisemitism and any acts of hate-filled intimidation," Cole stated in a Facebook post on June 29.

"I denounce middle-of-the-night protests in residential neighborhoods that are meant to intimidate and disrupt the lives of our Lake County families," said Cole, according to Facebook. "Peaceful and respectful dialogue is essential in addressing grievances and seeking solutions, but actions threatening our community's safety, security, and well-being are unacceptable. I stand firmly against antisemitism and any acts of hate-filled intimidation."

In her post, Cole shared a link to an article from the Lake & McHenry County Scanner about the protests. According to the report, the incident occurred when pro-Palestine demonstrators gathered overnight in Highland Park near Congressman Schneider’s home. The protest led neighbors to file noise complaints and caused concern within the community.

Screenshot of Mary Cole For Lake County State's Attorney June 29 Facebook post | Mary Cole for Lake County State's Attorney Facebook page

The Lake & McHenry County Scanner reported that the Highland Park Police Department responded around 2:43 a.m. after receiving a noise complaint about people shouting in the area of Woodland Road and St. Johns Avenue. Officers observed approximately 40 protestors carrying banners and using loudspeakers to amplify antisemitic chants and drums on the sidewalk. The protestors left by 3:15 a.m., but police remained for two more hours to investigate and ensure residents' safety.

NBC5 Chicago also covered the incident, noting that Schneider is a prominent Jewish Democrat. According to their June 29 report, Highland Park police have increased patrols in the neighborhood following the event.

The city issued a statement to the Lake & McHenry County Scanner after the event: "Public safety is the City’s top priority. The City can and will strictly enforce all of its public safety, noise, nuisance, and disturbance of the peace ordinances. The City unequivocally condemns antisemitism and all acts of hate, standing in solidarity with our Jewish community."

Cole, a former assistant state’s attorney in Lake County, has emphasized her commitment to addressing issues such as low morale and inadequate attorney training during her campaign for the November 2024 election. She is currently a partner at Brady Cole Trial Lawyers with experience in both prosecution and defense, handling cases involving DUIs, domestic battery, and orders of protection.