Hastings Takes On Gasca In IL's 19th Senate District: 2024 Election
ILLINOIS — Election Day is almost upon us, and while the presidential race of Vice President Kamala Harris and former President Donald Trump is the biggest race on the ticket, there are several local races and referenda to keep an eye on as well.
The race for Illinois' 19th State Senate impacts a large portion of Cook and some of Will County, with Frankfort resident and incumbent Sen. Michael Hastings taking on newcomer Samantha Gasca, of New Lenox.
The 19th district includes all, or parts, of the communities of Arbury Hills, Country Club Hills, Frankfort, Frankfort Square, Hazel Crest, Homer Glen, Homewood, Joliet, Lockport, Matteson, Mokena, New Lenox, Oak Forest, Olympia Fields, Orland Hills, Orland Park, Richton Park, Tinley Park and University Park.
Candidate Priorities
MICHAEL HASTINGS
Hastings points to rising property taxes and threats to constituents' civil liberties as among the most pressing issues the district faces.
"Increasing property taxes are burdening residents, making it essential to improve education funding while addressing tax mismanagement," Hastings wrote in his Patch candidate questionnaire.
Key issues in his platform include education funding, public health, gun legislation, mental health services, legislator ethics, veterans' needs and services, and infrastructure improvements. Hastings also supports ensuring women's autonomy over healthcare decisions, including access to abortion services, he said.
Read his full candidate questionnaire .
SAMANTHA GASCA
Newcomer and New Lenox resident Samantha Gasca seeks to tackle corruption in the Illinois government. She says that at the forefront of issues facing constituents are the cost of living, and rising property taxes. She would seek "thorough, independent audits of all governmental agencies within the 19th Senate District (to start)," she said in her questionnaire.
"I believe in small government, freedom of speech, and constitutional rights," Gasca wrote. On her campaign website , Gasca says she will "work tirelessly to promote entrepreneurship, strengthen small businesses, and create more jobs."
Gasca also pinpoints prioritizing accessible healthcare, pushing for increased funding for public schools, and additional police officers hired as ways she hopes to address key issues facing the territory.
Read her full candidate questionnaire .
