I call on Peter Roskam to denounce State Representative Jeanne Ives and the racist, sexist and transphobic ad released yesterday by her gubernatorial campaign.
The ad, “Thank You,” panders to Trumpian stereotypes with mocking depictions of various implied Illinois residents - a transgendered person, a woman’s rights activist, a teacher, and an immigrant - mockingly “thanking” Governor Bruce Rauner for access to safe and legal health care, basic human rights, and the ability to use a private restroom.
“Thank You” pushes an immoral divisiveness straight out of the Trump playbook.
Ives has endorsed Roskam, who highlights her support, quoting her on his campaign website. Roskam’s failure to denounce Ives should be seen for what it is - agreement with her brand of hate and intolerance. That worldview is wrong for America and wrong for Illinois families.
Jeanne Ives is trying to activate the Roskam-Trump wing of the GOP by bringing hate and vitriol into our state. Illinois has a long legacy of leaders, from Lincoln to Obama, who have shown us a brighter future through unity and tolerance. Demagogues like Ives do exactly the opposite to radicalize their base. This crosses a moral line we cannot ignore.
Roskam’s silence is complicity. It’s time for Congressman Roskam to shoulder the responsibility we expect from our elected representatives and speak out against hate speech.
Thank you to everyone who participated in this election!
