Contested Race for Illinois Senate: Jared Ploger vs. Edgardo Perez

The race for the Illinois Senate seat in the 42nd District features candidates Jared Ploger, a Democrat, and Edgardo Perez, a Republican. This election follows the retirement of Linda Holmes, D-Aurora, after 20 years of service. The election is set for Nov. 3, 2026.

Jared Ploger’s Priorities

Jared Ploger, 51, of Aurora, highlights issues of taxes and affordability as central to his campaign. Voters express concern about property taxes and their high rates.

“People I’ve spoken with at the door emphasize how high property taxes are in the 42nd District and their desire to see them reduced,” Ploger noted.

Ploger also mentions constituents’ frustration with current government policies affecting affordability, particularly in connection to tariffs and other economic factors. He notes conversations revolving around housing, utilities, and the environmental impacts of data centers.

If elected, Ploger intends to focus on infrastructure improvement, living wages, and comprehensive education funding. He points out the need for investment in roads, transportation, and hospitals due to the area’s rapid growth.

“We need investment out here in roads, transportation, hospitals—these are all necessary parts of our community,” Ploger stated.

Regarding wages, he stresses the importance of ensuring pay keeps pace with living costs. On education, Ploger emphasizes supporting high-performing districts to maintain property values and considers implementing a millionaires’ tax to avoid burdening the middle and lower classes.

Edgardo Perez’s Platform

Edgardo Perez, 62, of Aurora, highlights concerns about taxes, data centers, and voter awareness regarding their representatives. Voters report frustrations over tax increases and a lack of transparency.

“People complain about rising taxes without having enough influence over decisions,” said Perez. “They seek more transparency to know how their tax money is used.”

Perez recognizes concerns about data centers’ environmental impacts and the need for technological advancement. He also notes the community’s desire to understand the financial ramifications of these centers.

Perez aims to enhance transparency, support veterans, and provide opportunities for youth if elected. He advocates for referendums to give residents a voice in tax-related decisions and emphasizes the need for community-specific veteran support.

“Assisting veterans in our area is crucial,” Perez noted. “Communities need to find ways to complement federal benefits.”

Youth support is another priority for Perez, who aims to help families with children who have special needs.

“Helping families with special needs children and planning for their adulthood is a significant concern,” he stated.

Both candidates seek to address local concerns and represent the interests of the constituents in Illinois’ 42nd District.

David Sharos, reporter for The Beacon-News, contributed to this coverage.