Meet Aaron Porter
Aaron Porter is running for Illinois State Representative IL-81
Aaron Porter is running for Illinois State Representative IL-81. As a lifelong member of the area, he is dedicated to making a difference in the 81st District. With a background in public service, including roles as a patrol officer, Aaron is committed to addressing the district's challenges and opportunities as a candidate for State Representative.
1. Why did you decide to run for office?
Over the past several years, there has been a great deal of focus on the law enforcement profession in Springfield. With all of this focus on one single profession, there was a lack of police officer representation in the general assembly. In order to have the best possible success for police reform, there should be a direct voice downstate, and I want to be that voice.
2. What are you hoping to accomplish if you win?
I want to make a positive presence here in our 81st district, and throughout the state, in the areas we are focusing on the most. We need to make sure our district sees an increase in population and keep it a very desirable place to live. This comes with safety, affordability for growing families, and keeping hard-earned dollars in the taxpayers’ pocket.
3. What qualifications set you apart from other candidates?
I have had a desire for public service for most of my adult life, and this desire to make a change hasn’t stopped. From my start as an instructional aide inside special education classrooms, giving back to my community through coaching volleyball as a job and volunteer, and now in my profession as a police officer, I have gained a vast amount of knowledge of what the public needs and how to work together with others to achieve those needs. This will be no different downstate, given my desire to work with people on both sides of the aisle to achieve a common goal of making Illinois a great place to live.
4. What specific actions will you take if you win?
I firmly believe we should be doing what we can to keep guns out of the hands of dangerous individuals, violent offenders, and habitual gun offenders - whether they’re a danger to themselves or others. As a police officer, I believe I have a firsthand perspective of those individuals and can help guide legislation to make laws current or new laws effective. Equally important, we must enforce existing laws and empower the public to utilize tools like our "red flag" law and gun transfer background checks.
5. What else would you like voters to know about yourself?
I’ve been a lifelong resident of this district and some of the biggest moments in my life have taken place here. I love living in this area and I want the same for so many other families. I’ve spent a great deal of time learning from current and former representatives on what it takes to be a good and fair member of the General Assembly. I’ve already proven through multiple awards and recognition through my profession that I’ve upheld my oath to the best of my abilities. I will do the same with the oath I take as a future IL State representative.
6. In your opinion, what is a hidden gem of a restaurant or business in Downers Grove Township?
My wife and I have been huge proponents of Another Round in downtown Downers Grove for over a decade. This restaurant has played a role in our lives from when we were just friends, to dating, to being a staple date night location in our marriage. They’re great! Of course, Tortorice’s Pizza is great as well!