Macon Reporter

Dr. Lisa Smith, a candidate for State House District 96, has voiced her dissatisfaction with the Illinois Democrats. She accuses them of damaging the state's school system and obstructing children's access to their preferred schools.

“It makes me sick to see how the Democrats have ruined our school system and are now keeping children from attending the school of their choice,” Smith said on Facebook. 

“Appears like they want to ruin your children’s chance to become educated and leave their system of control. Hmmmm………Keep fighting for our children Empower Illinois!”

Empower Illinois, an advocacy group dedicated to the Invest in Kids Tax Credit Scholarship Program, expressed gratitude to supporters as the program approaches its sunset. Reflecting on the program's history in a year-end message, they appreciate the contributions of Empower Families, schools, and community partners over the past six years, according to their social media post. With only a few days left in the year, the organization used the opportunity for a throwback to appreciate the collaborative efforts that have sustained the program. The message conveyed a sense of appreciation for the support that has been crucial to the program's success.

The recent fall veto session in Illinois concluded without allocating funds for the Invest In Kids scholarship program. This decision puts at risk the education of 9,600 economically disadvantaged children amid opposition from teachers' unions. According to Prairie State Wire, House Speaker Chris Welch's decision not to extend the program makes Illinois unique as it retracts public funding for school choice.

Smith, a pediatric nurse practitioner with a doctorate degree from the University of Illinois at Chicago, is running for office with a focus on defending constitutional rights and bringing positive change. Her campaign emphasizes her commitment to family values, highlighted by her 35-year marriage to a pastor, her role as a mother to ten children (seven adopted), and her family’s dedication to public service with three sons having served or currently serving in the military. She is also a certified pediatric mental health specialist according to her website.

House District 96 includes all or parts of Springfield, Decatur, Taylorville, Blue Mound, Mount Auburn, Niantic, Edinburg and Rochester. The seat is currently held by State Rep. Sue Scherer (D-Decatur). Sherer has been in the position for a decade and is running to seek another term to represent the district, according to Ballotpedia.