Press Release:  Democrats, Candidates and Voters Convene In the Metro-East for DPI’s 2nd Annual Downstate Summit

Granite City, IL – Last week, the Democratic Party of Illinois hosted the Party’s second-ever downstate summit to strengthen the pipeline for southern Illinois democrats to get involved–and stay invested in—state party operations. Friday’s summit offered attendees the opportunity to speak with statewide candidates running for U.S. Senate and Illinois Comptroller, as well as countywide candidates, in order for local leaders to build relationships with future elected officials. The program, held in Madison County, featured remarks from DPI Chair Lisa Hernandez, Democratic State Central Committeeman Bill Houlihan (IL-13), Illinois State Treasurer Mike Frerichs, Illinois Representative Katie Stuart (IL-112), Madison County Democrats Chair Andy Asadorian, LiUNA International Representative Randy Harris and several Democratic candidates running for offices in next year’s primary.

“Friday’s summit was proof that downstate Democrats are organized, growing, and ready to win. The event follows months of local organizing led by DPI. Across the state, the Party conducted a first-ever statewide data training series supporting local party officials in over 30 counties and recruited more than 350 Illinoisans through a statewide texting and relational outreach program to identify volunteers, precinct leaders, and candidates. Our second downstate annual summit in Madison County built upon our commitment to meeting Democrats where they are,” said DPI Chair Lisa Hernandez.

“For the second year in a row, DPI’s downstate summit has provided the Party with opportunities to connect with our neighbors in southern Illinois, provide support to local parties and hear how the state party can continue to amplify the great work local Democrats are doing daily,” said DPI Downstate Director Tyler Bontemps.

Along with Committeeman Bill Houlihan, DPI was also joined by 15th congressional district DSCC members Katherine Daniels and Terry Redman. Democrats who joined the summit’s speaking portion include U.S. Representative Robin Kelly (IL-02), U.S. Representative Raja Krishnamoorthi (IL-08), U.S. Senate candidate Adair Rodriguez, State Representative Margaret Croke (IL-12), State Representative Stephanie Kifowit (IL-84), Lake County Treasurer Holly Kim, and Madison County Candidate for Clerk & Recorder Rachelle Bauerle.