Dupage Policy Journal

Audrey Barrett, the nominee for Illinois State House District 26, recently expressed concerns about potential health risks associated with immigration. Barrett, set to challenge incumbent Democrat Kambium Buckner in the forthcoming general election, also disseminated a Facebook post originally shared by Fox News.

"As a healthcare professional this is a real threat to all citizens of Chicago and Illinois," said Barrett, Candidate, according to Facebook. "We can no longer afford to accept illegal immigrants into our state that are now becoming a health risk. As your elected representative I will fight to secure your rights including protections from these diseases."

The aforementioned post from Fox News, which Barrett redistributed on her own page, referenced reports from the Chicago Department of Health. These reports indicated instances of tuberculosis (TB) detected in city shelters. The post further included a link to an associated news story.

Screenshot of Audrey Barrett for Representative 26th District's April 4 Facebook post | Audrey Barrett For Representative 26th District Facebook page

According to Fox News, the confirmations of TB infections in the city were disclosed by the Chicago Department of Public Health (CDPH). However, officials did not provide specific figures regarding the extent of these TB infections. While TB is curable with antibiotics and is not considered highly infectious, it remains a public health concern.

Fox News quoted a statement from CDPH:
"TB is not a novel or rarely seen illness in Chicago, as the Chicago Department of Public Health typically expects to see between 100-150 cases of tuberculosis in Chicago residents in an average year. We will continue to offer treatment to individuals as necessary and take the proper precautions to eliminate spread, but we do not consider this a matter presenting a substantial threat to the public," read the statement.

Barrett hails from South Side and is a single mother of three children. She holds the position of CEO and Founder at Kingdom 4U Health and Wellness. As a nurse specializing in pediatric home healthcare, she also serves as a nurse manager.

"Barrett’s efforts have shifted in focus as a result of the scarcity of voices in our legislature who can empathize with those who are struggling. Crime, education, the drug crisis, and lack of access to healthcare are problems wreaking havoc on our communities and ones she cares deeply about," stated her campaign website.

The 26th House District is entirely situated within Chicago, encompassing neighborhoods such as Bronzeville, Downtown, Gold Coast, and Hyde Park. Currently represented by State Rep. Kam Buckner (D-Chicago), the district is set for a re-election race. Buckner, who also ran in the February 2023 election for Mayor of Chicago, is vying to continue his representation of District 26, as per Ballotpedia.