WCPT 820 Candidate Interview: Paul Nolley

Filling in for Patti Vasquez, Paul Chivari and guest co-host Ken Mejia-Beal are joined by Paul Nolley, candidate for Congress in the 16th District of Illinois. Campaign Status and Geography- Nolley notes that the district's vast geography makes door-to-door campaigning a significant challenge.- Despite the difficult political terrain in the 16th District, currently held by Republican Darin LaHood, Nolley expresses high confidence in his ability to win this cycle.Nolley's Professional Background- Nolley grew up in the Rockford area and has spent much of his career with nonprofit organizations.- He has worked with faith-based groups on youth literacy and fundraising for organizations like Habitat for Humanity and United Way.- For the last six years, he has served as the executive director of a labor management organization focused on construction apprenticeships.Motivations for Running- Nolley decided to run for office after discussing potential political shifts with his wife.- He wants to provide a working-class contrast to the incumbent, who comes from a politically powerful family.- His primary goal is to offer a new vision that helps working-class citizens improve their lives.Legislative Priorities and Goals- Nolley aims to address corruption and backroom deals within the government - He supports national redistricting reform and overturning Citizens United to reduce dark money influence.- Other priorities include industrial policy for manufacturing hubs like Rockford and making health care more affordable via Medicare expansion and Affordable Care Act tax credits.Political Support and Voter Issues- The Democratic Party of Illinois has designated Nolley's race as a targeted campaign with its potential to turn blue.  - In voter outreach, Nolley reports that economic anxiety regarding future opportunities for younger generations is a primary concern.- He also hears frequent mentions of health care costs, war impacts, and general societal instability from both Democrats and Republicans.Debate Participation and Engagement- Nolley reports that LaHood hasn't held an in-person town hall in nine years.- A candidate forum is confirmed for October 5 in Peoria, but a direct debate remains unconfirmed by LaHood's team.- Supporters can get involved or donate via his official website at paulnolley.com. Catch "Driving It Home with Patti Vasquez" weekdays from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. Central on WCPT (heartlandsignal.com/programs/driving-it-home).   Follow us: Website: https://heartlandsignal.com WCPT Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WCPT820 Heartland Signal Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HeartlandSignal Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@heartlandsignal  Heartland Signal X: https://x.com/HeartlandSignal WCPT 820 X: https://x.com/WCPT820 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/heartlandsignal Threads: threads.com/@heartlandsignal YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@heartlandsignalSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.