Illinois’ Economic Sustainability Relies on Agriculture—Smoke-Filled Room—Episode 67

We’re on the road again for this week’s Smoke-Filled Room in Iroquois County, representative of a region that is often overlooked. We’re in the farming heartland of Illinois and our guests share insight on agriculture and other issues impacting eastern Illinois.

Joining for this special Smoke-Filled Room episode includes State Representative Jason Bunting, soon to be Iroquois County State’s Attorney Mike Quinlin, longtime political leader out of Iroquois County Susan Wynn Bence, and candidate for the 2nd Congressional District Ashley Ramos. They’re joined by Cor’s political expert Chris Jackowiak and host Collin Corbett.

Many (most?) political leaders in Illinois are unaware of the importance of agriculture. Our guests share what it’s like being a farmer and connect the dots as to why it’s crucial for Illinois’ economy.

Then we get into political topics and how they impact rural communities. As the Democrat Party moves further and further to the left, where do hard working, rural Democrats go? How do rural communities handle the far-left’s pro-crime policies?

Finally, our viewers get an exclusive look at which issues are most important to Illinois voters right now thanks to EmpowerToWin’s quarterly issue tracking poll.

00:00: Introductions
04:18: What Do Illinois Farmers Need Influencers Around the State to Understand?
13:07: Protecting Our Agricultural Economy Vital to Illinois' Sustainability
19:22: Vulnerable Democrats Used Estate Tax Reform for Good PR But Didn't Actually Pass It
25:45: Illinois Ground Zero for the Fight Over "Right to Repair" for Farm Equipment
29:31: How Have Democrats' Far-Left Pro-Crime Policies Impacted Central Illinois?
39:05: Opioid Crisis Felt Even More Strongly in Rural Communities
49:12: With the Democratic Party Moving Further Left, Are Rural Dems Going the Way of the Dodo?
54:50: EmpowerToWin: As the Economy Worsens, Illinois Voters Now List It as Their Top Issue
01:02:45: OG & Clown of the Week
01:08:25: Closing Thoughts