Homemaker takes on Democrat Incumbent
AURORA, IL. A grandmother of 8 has thrown her red hat into the political ring to challenge Democrat incumbent, Linda Chapa -LaVia for State Representative in the 83rd District
Republican candidate, Joan Solms, the widow of a Navy officer, says that Chapa-LaVia poorly represents her district with respect to taxes, parental rights, human rights, immigration laws and protection of religious rights and free speech.
Solms has put together a number of ideas which if enacted would decrease the amount of money the state could withhold or demand from taxpayers. She stresses small government, less regulations on small businesses and less Federal interference in state government. Her opponent has just voted for an increase in sales taxes. A 1/2 cent jump.
Solms styles herself as a pro-life / pro-family candidate. She has two adopted sons and is guardian to a special needs young man who has resided with her for 24 years. A foster parent for 22 years, she twice successfully challenged the Department of Children and Family Services over placement of children. Won in a Due Process hearing with School District 117 over the psychological testing of mentally challenged individuals. Has taken in homeless persons on a temporary and permanent basis.
Solms founded and directed the Family Life League for 10 years. During that period she was involved in a lawsuit against the Illinois Department of Public Aid and the Illinois State Medical Society over freedom of information which the League won in a 9-0 decision in the Illinois Supreme Court.
Regarding immigration, Solms opposes laws which would provide drivers'
licenses and special educational benefits to illegal immigrants.
Laws her opponent sponsored. She believes English should be the
official language of government. Illinois needs to reclaim state
rights and retain more of "our" funds which are being sent to
Washington. It is our money and we need it!
We are engaged in a cultural and religious war over abortion and parental rights, Solms states, and there can be no compromise. Her opponent voted against parental rights in trying to weaken the current legislation. Abortion is genocide for minority races. Black and Latino women endure 4 times the rate of abortions that white women do. Her opponent has shown no leadership or concern in protecting these women. There was no sign of Chapa-LaVia at the Aurora City Council hearings where the opening of the Planned Parenthood facility was debated. Her silence betokens consent. Abortion, yes, life no. Emancipation of minors, yes, parents rights, no.
Among her other activities Solms is a member of the St. Vincent de Paul Society and is in the Red Hat Club, grand dames who wear red hats as a message to enjoy life.