Background
Chris Metcalfe was born in Covina, California. He earned a bachelor's degree from Southern Oregon State University in 1978 and a bachelor's degree from Lamar University in 1986. His career experience includes working as a project manager. He has previously worked as a chemical engineer, operations manager, paramedic, and in underwater rescue and recovery for a sheriff's department. He has been affiliated with the Bolingbrook Chamber of Commerce.[1]
- Bachelor's:
- Southern Oregon State University, 1978
Campaign themes
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Who are you? Tell us about yourself.
I am a conservative candidate who has gotten fed up with the state of the government and I want to bring back common sense. I have had a career as chemical engineer designing and building chemical plants for fortune 500 companies. This has taught me how to make a plan and stay within the budget. I live with my wife, Karen, in Bolingbrook, IL. I currently run the back office operations, do the statistical analysis, and problem solve for Karen's local tax and accounting business.
Please list below 3 key messages of your campaign. What are the main points you want voters to remember about your goals for your time in office?
Reduce the gas tax and put money back in your pocketProtect law abiding citizens, not criminalsReduce state spending to reduce state taxes and property taxes
What areas of public policy are you personally passionate about?
I am passionate about criminals not being held accountable for their crimes. I am passionate about the government wasting all my hard earned money. I am passionate stopping the government from taking more and more of the citizens money, so they can no longer afford to live in Illinois. I am passionate about stopping the Politicians from turning Illinois into the war zone that Chicago is. I am passionate about letting law-abiding citizens keep their guns, and to take the guns away from criminals and mentally ill people. I want to pass "stand your ground gun legislation" in Illinois. I am passionate about supporting the police. I am passionate about supporting small businesses. I want to take back the rights that have been taken away from citizens.
Who do you look up to? Whose example would you like to follow, and why?
Ronald Regan. He cut taxes and put money back into the American people's pocket. He brought the country back from economic despair. It was very similar to what we are experiencing now.
What qualities do you possess that you believe would make you a successful officeholder?
I am familiar with putting together a multi-million dollar budget and sticking to it. I am a good listener. I have managed large groups of people. I do not make emotional judgements. I research problems to see all the issues, from different directions, before making my decision.
What do you believe are the core responsibilities for someone elected to this office?
The responsibility for the elected official is to find out what people in your district want and be their voice in Springfield. Do what the people want you to do for them.
What is the first historical event that happened in your lifetime that you remember? How old were you at the time?
1963 President Kennedy's assassination, I was 8 years old. I remember how much it effected everyone. The country grieved together and school was shut down for two weeks.
What was your very first job? How long did you have it?
I was an armed security guard for 5 years while I was attending college.
What do you perceive to be your state's greatest challenges over the next decade?
Reducing the cost of government.
Do you believe that it’s beneficial for state legislators to have previous experience in government or politics?
No.
Do you believe it’s beneficial to build relationships with other legislators? Please explain your answer.
Yes, you need to know the people you work with, so you can communicate effectively with them. Also, you need to know their needs and wants to be able to see your needs and wants.
Should the legislature oversee or grant the use of emergency powers?
Yes, because it has been abused way too much.
On the 2026 ballot
Links
Compiled from the candidate’s published profile as of September 30, 2026.
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