What types of transportation do you use during an average week, and how has this shaped your view of transportation policy?

As a current State Representative and candidate for Comptroller, every week is different. I routinely take the BNSF Metra line into Chicago for meetings, and when traveling to southern Illinois, I take Amtrak as often as possible. I have also flown from O'Hare to Quincy. Public transit is very important, which is why I supported creating the new NITA board to streamline and improve operations. My view of transportation policy is also shaped by my military service in the U.S. Marines and being stationed overseas in Japan, as well as visiting my son who is now stationed there. Their public transportation systems are more coordinated and reliable, and I hope the new NITA board will help Illinois develop a more comprehensive system. As a representative for the City of Aurora, I have participated in many discussions about creating more pedestrian-friendly roadways. In fact, many bike lanes have been funded through state grants. After a fatal vehicle-bicycle accident, I supported a $3 million request to IDOT for additional bike safety lanes. Unfortunately, that request was rejected, but I am working to have it resubmitted.

What are some of the transportation budgetary and funding challenges–and opportunities–faced statewide?

The state of Illinois faced a fiscal cliff that would have crippled our public transportation system. I supported the funding solution to avert this crisis and the creation of the reconfigured NITA board, which will bring more efficiency and accountability to our transit system.

What role do you view the comptroller can play in bringing funding sources and revenue streams to state transportation projects?

The Comptroller is the Chief Financial Officer of the state. In this role, the office can identify funding gaps and how revenue can be applied, but it is the General Assembly's role to pass legislation creating new revenue sources. With over 12 years of state budget experience and a decade as an Aurora Alderman, I can bring that knowledge to the Comptroller's office to work with the General Assembly. Most importantly, as Comptroller, I will audit and report on the effects of fund sweeps, which often divert money from critical community projects.

Are there ways you believe Illinois could be better stewards of funding it receives for transportation projects?

We can always be better stewards of transportation funding. As the former chair of the State Government Committee, I closely examined the procurement process for contracts to identify inefficiencies and areas for improvement. While many of these items are technical, I am the only candidate with firsthand knowledge of the state system and can identify where we can improve.

Federal funding for Illinois transportation projects – such as the Red Line Extension – has come under threat from the Trump administration. As Comptroller, how do you intend to shore up funding for critical infrastructure projects under a hostile federal climate?

As the only candidate for Comptroller who served during the 21⁄2-year budget impasse, I know firsthand the devastating effects of losing funding for our communities. With over 12 years of budget experience, I understand which funding comes from the federal government and how to hold them accountable. I am also the only candidate in this race who served with our current Attorney General when he was a State Senator. I will draw on our long-term working relationship to fight together for the funding Illinois deserves. The Attorney General needs an experienced Comptroller by his side to fight for every dollar owed to Illinois, and I am the only one with that experience.