Patti Vasquez is joined by Dan VanTilburg, vice chair of the DeKalb County Illinois Democratic Party. Patti will be the keynote speaker at DeKalb Democrats’ Paul Simon Awards Dinner & Fundraiser Sunday, October 4.
The discussion examined voter concerns and Democratic organizing in DeKalb County. VanTillburg described listening efforts across the county, with gas prices, immigration enforcement, and the Palestinian issue among the concerns raised. Other key points from the conversation:
- Some lifelong Republican voters are reconsidering their support for the party because of ICE enforcement.
- Immigration enforcement near the Sycamore courthouse has made some university-affiliated residents less willing to go out, affecting the local economy.
- Farmers are facing lower soybean prices after losing contracts and trust in foreign markets.
- Tariffs and input costs were identified as additional pressures on generational and newer farms.
Catch "Driving It Home with Patti Vasquez" weekdays from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. Central on WCPT (heartlandsignal.com/programs/driving-it-home).
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