Blog: Citizen Action/Illinois Endorsed Candidate Highlight Part 2
Citizen Action/Illinois is proud to endorse candidates in the upcoming municipal elections across the state who support quality public education, strong local services, and inclusive, community-driven leadership.
As a statewide progressive organization, we know the importance of local elections in shaping our communities’ futures. This builds on our endorsements from the last municipal cycle, where we supported candidates in races such as school boards and library boards in suburban districts.
Below are highlights of three candidates we have endorsed:
Brady Chalmers – Endorsed for Mayor of Homewood
Brady Chalmers is committed to revitalizing Homewood with innovative ideas and a relentless passion for improving residents’ lives. A dedicated community member and PTA participant at Churchill Elementary, Brady’s leadership is grounded in authenticity.
"We are at a tipping point," Brady shares. "Homewood residents have a choice for the future: continue with the same old things or embrace a future with new ideas and new energy. Together, we will forge a bright future for our children and invest in our families."
Brady’s priorities include expanding afterschool programs, introducing secondary language instruction at the elementary level, and updating critical infrastructure. He also promises an honest, transparent administration through regular town halls and community feedback sessions. "This is my commitment—I will always stand up and fight for you!"
Gail Schechter – Endorsed for Skokie At-Large Trustee
Gail Schechter brings years of professional leadership of Open Communities, a housing justice nonprofit, and a commitment to building sustainable, inclusive communities. She is running for At-Large Trustee to reimagine Skokie’s future through community engagement and bold, inclusive policies.
"My top three priorities are: rebuilding public trust through accessible community conversations and making roles on commissions and boards more accessible, co-creating a 21st Century Comprehensive Plan for Skokie, and shifting our economic development philosophy to invest in local businesses, local consumers and local workers," Gail explains.
Her dedication to mixed-income housing and equitable economic development reflects her belief that when Skokie’s workforce can live locally, the entire community benefits. "I’m running to ensure that all people—no matter what they earn, where they were born, or who they are—have a place at Skokie’s communal table."
Ashfaq Syed – Endorsed for Naperville Town Council
Ashfaq Syed is a proven leader with a strong track record in public service. His work with Loaves & Fishes Community Services and the Naperville Environment and Sustainability Task Force highlights his dedication to the well-being and economic mobility of Naperville’s residents and responsible development.
"I will work to advocate for balanced development that preserves our environment, and manage taxpayer money transparently," Ashfaq states.
Ashfaq’s extensive leadership includes his role as Co-Chair of Naperville’s Census 2020 Complete Count Committee, which secured millions in federal funding. "What sets me apart is my ability to bring people together across political, economic, and cultural lines to find common-sense solutions for Naperville."
