Dupage Policy Journal

In some ways, Laura Hois views Gov. J.B. Pritzker’s recent policy change paving the way for violent felons facing deportation to be set free before ever having to interact with ICE officials as a betrayal of his office.

“Providing for the physical safety of our citizens is the most fundamental responsibility of a government,” Hois (R-Downers Grove) recently told the DuPage Policy Journal. “I'm running to keep families just like mine safe. In Downers Grove, DuPage County and throughout Illinois we deserve the peace of mind of knowing we are protected in our own communities and homes.”

Hois, who is running in the 81st District against incumbent state Rep. Anne Stava-Murray (D-Naperville), argues Pritzker’s change in policy, which only became publicly known after members of the Illinois Sheriff’s Association went public with their opposition to it, has completely robbed communities like hers of feeling safe. 

Before the change that Livingston County Sheriff Mike Downey has likened to giving ex-felons “a head start to evade federal law” went into effect, whenever convicted felons here illegally were set to be released, ICE authorities were contacted after they had served their time.

“Families don't trust politicians because of policy decisions exactly like this one which results in felons being released back into our community without our input and without transparency,” Hois added.  “Ramming through a political agenda over law enforcement professionals' objections is reckless and irresponsible. It goes against everything the open-minded voters I talk to are looking for from a responsive, compassionate, and effective government that has our interests at heart.”

According to the Dispatch-Argus, a spokesperson from the governor’s office described the policy switch as a “pause in corrections' interactions" with ICE while the administration conducts a procedural review.