House candidate Trussell on Chicago crime: 'Let’s protect the good people of our communities!'

Stephanie Trussell, a candidate for the Illinois House of Representatives in District 42, has called for stronger measures against violent repeat offenders. She criticized city leadership for being disconnected from working residents.

"Not one of the bobble heads nodding in agreement behind the mayor are forced to take public transportation to make a living," said Trussell. "We don't need to jail everyone that breaks the law but can we agree on the violent repeat offenders? Let's protect the good people of our communities!"

Trussell's remarks were made following comments by Mayor Brandon Johnson, who was quoted by The Chicago Spectator as saying that jailing criminals is "racist." Her response highlights frustration among residents worried about increasing violence on public transit and in neighborhoods throughout Chicago.

According to data from the Chicago Police Department, violent crime on the city's public transportation system rose by 32% between 2022 and 2024. Assaults and robberies on CTA trains and buses continue to be a significant concern, especially for commuters and service workers.

Reports from the Cook County State’s Attorney’s Office indicate that approximately one in five suspects charged with violent felonies in 2024 were already on pretrial release. These findings have intensified criticism of bail reform policies under the Safe-T Act.

Trussell is a conservative commentator and was the Republican nominee for Illinois lieutenant governor in 2022. A lifelong resident of Illinois, she has been an advocate for public safety, parental rights, and government accountability, with a focus on supporting working-class communities.