West Cook News

Eric Su, a candidate for House District 21, emphasized the need for the legislature to enhance public safety by supporting law enforcement, crime prevention, and community security initiatives. This statement was made during an interview.

"I believe the state legislature has a critical role in keeping our communities safe," said Su. "We must focus on common-sense policies that support law enforcement, hold criminals accountable, and protect law-abiding citizens. Public safety isn't just about responding to crime; it's about creating strong neighborhoods where families can thrive without fear. The legislature should lead with policies that keep our streets safe, our schools secure, and our communities strong."

The debate over public safety in Illinois for 2024–25 centers on balancing accountability reforms with funding for law enforcement. The state is continuing to implement the SAFE-T Act while defending its firearm restrictions. Lawmakers are divided over spending priorities for policing and prevention, as courts rule on the scope of gun-free zones. According to the Associated Press, the Seventh Circuit upheld Illinois’ ban on carrying guns on public transit, affirming the state's authority to regulate weapons in "sensitive places."

Illinois' violent crime data from 2024 indicates that aggravated assault constituted 50.6% of offenses, robbery 31.2%, rape 16.2%, and murder 2.0%. These figures place Illinois 29th nationally in overall violent crime rates. While not among the highest in the country, these numbers reflect ongoing safety challenges in both urban and suburban communities. USAFacts reports that these figures are based on FBI state-level reporting for 2023–2024.

According to the Illinois Commission on Government Forecasting and Accountability, which analyzed U.S. Census finance data, Illinois spends more on policing than most states, ranking eighth in 2022 at about $493 per capita compared to the $420 U.S. average. This level surpasses many Midwestern neighbors, underscoring Illinois’ high investment in law enforcement relative to peers.

Su is described as a husband, father, small-business owner, and lifelong Illinoisan who has spent over two decades helping people get healthier through his fitness business. A Purdue graduate and youth football coach, he has mentored kids and supported families through community programs aimed at bringing neighbors together. He is running for State Representative with a focus on lowering property taxes, improving school outcomes, backing law enforcement, and ensuring government spending transparency.

House District 21 encompasses parts of Chicago’s Southwest Side and nearby suburbs including Bedford Park, Berwyn, Bridgeview, Brookfield, Cicero, La Grange, North Riverside, Riverside, and Summit. The district blends residential and industrial areas and is represented by Democrat Abdelnasser Rashid since his election in 2022. According to Rashid's official website, this district is home to diverse communities playing a key role in local state politics.