Name: Cristina Castro
Position for which you are a candidate:
Illinois Senate District 22
Why are you seeking this position?
I believe the most effective way to cause the change I seek in the community is to take ownership and insert oneself. My goal in the senate was to be a leader on solving issues and I’ve cosponsored dozens of bills that deal with everything from the environment and ethics reform, to healthcare and pension reform. I believe I’ve done my constituents proud, but I feel that my first term has been just the beginning.
What experience and background do you have which qualifies you for this position?
I was a two-term Kane County Commissioner, where I worked in a bipartisan fashion to solve issues, balance budgets and hold the line on taxes and spending. As a State Senator, I’ve cosponsored dozens of bills including the Clean Energy Jobs Act and the Healthcare Violence Prevention Act. Currently, I am working on addressing Maternal Mortality and the Safe Patient Limits Act, which will ease the pressure on Registered Nurses. During my first term, I have developed strong relationships with my peers and the leadership in the Senate, and worked with them to accomplish what my constituents sent me to Springfield to do.
What will be your highest priorities if elected?
These are issues I’m currently working on in the general assembly:
1. Health Care issues: Addressing Maternal Mortality (re-introducing SB 1909), Safe Patients Act (SB 1908), addressing the high costs of prescription drugs
2. Environment – Working on the Clean Jobs Act with various stakeholders
3. Labor – Gig economy bill similar to ones introduced in several other states (i.e. A5 in California)
Will you attend the February 4th Dundee Candidate Forum? No, I am not able to attend
Will you attend the February 19th Elgin Candidate Forum? No, I am not able to attend
Campaign Policy
Elections and voting are core concerns for the League of Women Voters. Year in and year out, Leagues are committed to providing fact-based information about issues and the positions candidates take on those issues to help voters make their own decisions and participate in the process.
The League of Women Voters never supports or opposes candidates for office or political parties. Any use of the League of Women Voters name in campaign advertising or literature has not been authorized by the League.