By Jacqueline Garretson, Opinion Contributor
A few months ago, I had the opportunity to speak on a podcast where I shared my personal journey in politics, how I became involved, and my deep desire to see meaningful change in the state of Illinois. I spoke candidly about my experiences, including an encounter with Kathy Salvi of the Illinois GOP. I did so not to stir controversy, but to shed light on what so many grassroots activists encounter when they step forward to participate in the political process with integrity and conviction.
Since that podcast aired, I’ve seen firsthand the kind of resistance that comes when you speak truth and challenge a broken system. A small group of individuals – some with direct ties to the state party – have made it their mission to push me out of the McHenry County GOP.
Just last week, they attempted to vote me out.
They failed.
What’s happening here is bigger than me. It’s part of a much broader issue plaguing our political system in Illinois: the fear of empowered grassroots voices.
It is ironic, and frankly disturbing, that while I have been working hard to grow the party and increase local involvement, the ILGOP appears more interested in preserving control and silencing those who challenge their internal operations.
The very party that should be championing free speech and civic participation is, in many ways, working to stifle it.
Let’s be honest: many of these “leadership” roles aren’t pursued out of a passion for service. Too often, they are about access – access to donor money, insider events, photo ops with big names, and personal consulting gigs.
These roles are treated as stepping stones for influence rather than platforms for service. When someone comes along who isn’t playing the game — someone who’s asking tough questions and bringing others along for the ride – they become a threat. Not to the mission, but to the perks.
And that’s exactly why we must stay engaged.
The Republican Party does not belong to a select few. It doesn’t belong to political insiders, career operatives, or those who cling to power at the expense of progress. The Republican Party belongs to “We the People.” It belongs to every citizen who wants limited government, freedom of speech, economic opportunity, and faith-based values to be protected and upheld.
Grassroots leadership is not just important – it is essential. It’s how we keep our party honest, our leaders accountable, and our values alive. And while the process of getting involved can be messy, uncomfortable, and even painful at times, it’s necessary if we are going to reclaim our state.
If all we have is our voice – we must use it. Because when our voices are silenced, our future is surrendered. The moment we stop speaking out is the moment we give up the fight for our communities, our children, and our country.
Illinois is worth fighting for. And so is the truth.
Let them come for us. Let them try to silence us. We’re not backing down.
We’re just getting started.
Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed here are solely my own and do not reflect the official position of any organization, board, or role I may hold. I speak today as a concerned and engaged citizen who believes in the power of the people to shape the future of our state.
