Williams has done what we ask of candidates but . . .
he is unimpressive when it comes to replacing Sonya Harper in Springfield
In just about every election cycle there is an individual running for office who much of the public finds likeable, smart, and seemingly committed. However, that person’s attempt to gain a seat on the council or state capitol is met with the disclaimer “why don’t they try for another office, a lower office first.”
That is not what we are getting from Joseph Williams-the first candidate to declare for the 16th State of Illinois House of Representatives seat. In seeking to unseat incumbent Rep. Sonya Harper, Williams is bringing a resume that includes running unsuccessfully for alderman. He did emerge victorious earlier in 2023 when he was elected the the Chicago Police Department 7th District council.
Other than that, the Englewood resident and father of six, brings nothing but passion to the table. That is not an indicator how he will perform if he becomes one of the state’s 118 representatives. His role as the founder and executive director of Mr. Dads Father’s Club is the only employment his bio lists, other than being a violence interrupter for the former Cease Fire anti-violence organization.
In an interview in a recent article in the online news outlet Block Club Block Club news story, his answers reflected he is more in tune with issues that are handled by alderpersons, not state reps.
Rather than discourage Williams and others who bring featherweight political credentials to elections; they should be encouraged. At the same time thought, some veteran operatives and former officeholders should provide these kind of candidates; sound yet pragmatic advise. That advice should be anchored on when not to rung.
Williams’ other challenge is as of today, he doesn’t know who he will face in that election. Rep. Harper has not announced any re-election plans. It is a wise move for her as it lets her learn who her opponents will be, and how to counter their respective campaigns. Given she was the primary sponsor of more than 30 pieces of legislation in the House this year, we probably have a clear indication that she is looking to retain the seat.
Harper, who has been in office since 2015 serves on these House committees for Appropriations-Public Safety; Agriculture & Conservation (Chairperson); Energy & Environment; Immigration & Human Rights; Revenue & Finance; Property Tax Subcommittee; Environmental Justice Subcommittee (Sub-Co-Chairperson).A list of bills sponsored by Rep. Harper
Chicago’s ongoing migrant crisis as well as the city’s shooting, murder and carjacking problems will almost organically raise Harper’s visibility. Appearing on television interviews and being quoted in newspaper stories is known as “earned media”-something that won’t be as readily available to Williams. He will be forced to spend campaign dollars on advertising to spread his viewpoints and messages on those topics, as well as generate name recognition, especially beyond the southern portion of the district.
Williams will need to successfully accomplish Herculean fundraising efforts to effectively compete, if Harper decides to run. In her last race, not only did she raise more than $300,000, the Democrats for the Illinois House contributed approximately one-third of that. As a newcomer, Williams shouldn’t plan on seeing similar amounts rolling into his coffers.
Williams does check the boxes for likeability, community involvement and trying to move up the political ladder gradually; the road to Springfield will be extremely rocky.