Dupage Policy Journal

Democrat Sean Casten has apparently lobbied members of Congress for tax incentives and subsidies on behalf of his company, according to a new campaign ad from U.S. Rep. Peter Roskam (R-Illinois).

“Sean Casten takes every opportunity to talk about his ‘resume,’ but he conveniently leaves out that he was also a registered federal lobbyist who pleaded with congressional leaders for special tax breaks to benefit his own business,” said a press release from Roskam’s campaign.

Bloomberg’s website lists Casten as president and CEO of Recycled Energy Development, LLC, and on his campaign website, Casten claims two decades of startup experience in green energy businesses. The ad points out that Casten has opposed government bailouts for businesses.

Sean Casten

“There’s something shady about Sean Casten,” the ad said. “As a failing CEO, he repeatedly lined his own pockets with special interest taxpayer handouts.”

The ad cites more than half a dozen instances where Casten has either refused to support property tax freezes or has backed carbon, gas and other taxes in radio debates.

“When asked during a radio interview with WLS about a plan to raise taxes on gas, Casten said, ' ... absolutely we should raise the gas tax,'” Roskam’s ad states.

Roskam is running for re-election against Casten for Illinois’ 6th Congressional District, which includes Crystal Lake, Darien, Elgin, Naperville, Oakbrook Terrace, Rolling Meadows, St. Charles, Warrenville, West Chicago and Wheaton.