Garth Gullette

Garth Gullette was born in Peoria, Illinois. He earned a high school diploma from Dunlap High School. His career experience includes working as an advocate.[1]

Who are you? Tell us about yourself.

I’m Garth Gullette from Dunlap Illinois. I Currently reside here in Chillicothe. Father of two, renter, no college degree, just a hardworking guy who’s seen enough. Running for Congress in IL-16 as an independent-minded conservative Republican to fight for families like mine.

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?

I’m not a politician—I’m a working parent who’s dealt with unaffordable housing and a system that overlooks everyday folksI’ve lived in Peoria County my whole life, raising kids here, and I’m tired of reps who won’t even hold town halls or be held accountable. Being an available voice for the voters should not be to much to ask.I’m all in on real change: no big donors, no party scripts—just listening to you and showing up. Let’s talk!

What areas of public policy are you personally passionate about?

Banking reform to stop predatory practices and protect families’ finances.

Housing affordability to end child homelessness and make homes secure.

Child wellness, including mental health and substance abuse support, so our kids can thrive.
These hit home for me

Who do you look up to? Whose example would you like to follow, and why?

John F. Kennedy

Is there a book, essay, film, or something else you would recommend to someone who wants to understand your political philosophy?

“Chasing UFOs: A Scientific Approach to Unidentified Aerial Phenomena” by Marc D’Antonio

Unacknowledged” (2017 documentary)

The Creature from Jekyll Island” by G. Edward Griffin

What characteristics or principles are most important for an elected official?

Accountability, Leadership and Vision, Empathy and Listening, Transparency, Respect for the Rule of Law and Constitution, Adaptability, Knowledge, Integrity, Resilience

What qualities do you possess that you believe would make you a successful officeholder?

I bring a steadfast commitment to integrity, independence, and accountability—qualities essential for effective leadership. As an independent-minded conservative, I prioritize serving the people over party politics, always standing firm on principles like limited government, fiscal responsibility, and transparency. I listen closely to constituents, ensuring their voices guide my decisions. My dedication to reform—whether in banking, housing, or government oversight—reflects a deep desire to address real challenges with practical solutions. Above all, I am driven by a genuine passion to restore trust in government and fight for a fairer, more accountable America.

What do you believe are the core responsibilities for someone elected to this office?

Constituent Representation, Oversight and Accountability, Policy Advocacy, National Defense and Foreign Affairs, Legislative Responsibilities.

What legacy would you like to leave?

One that my kids would be proud of.

What is the first historical event that happened in your lifetime that you remember? How old were you at the time?

Oklahoma City Bombing. 3 Years Old.

What was your very first job? How long did you have it?

Movie Theater. 7 Years

What is your favorite book? Why?

Chasing Shadows by AJ Hartley

Beyond the thrilling plot, Hartley explores complex human emotions and the blurred lines between truth and perception, inviting readers to question what really lies in the shadows—both around us and within ourselves. If you value stories that combine intelligent storytelling with emotional weight and a hint of the mysterious, “Chasing Shadows” offers an unforgettable reading experience that lingers long after the last page.

If you could be any fictional character, who would you want to be?

Captain America

What was the last song that got stuck in your head?

Rain Rain Go Away

What is something that has been a struggle in your life?

One significant struggle I’ve faced is balancing personal challenges & advocacy. Like many working families, I’ve navigated financial uncertainties and the pressures of providing stability for my children. These experiences have given me firsthand understanding of the struggles many constituents face especially around affordable housing and economic security. Rather than deter me, these challenges fuel my determination to fight for meaningful reforms that create opportunity and dignity for all families.

What qualities does the U.S. House of Representatives possess that makes it unique as an institution?

The U.S. House of Representatives is unique for its large size, direct representation of local districts, and two-year terms that ensure close accountability to voters. It initiates revenue bills and plays a key role in checks and balances through oversight and impeachment powers. Its structure fosters responsiveness and reflects diverse voices across the nation, making it the people’s chamber in the federal government.

Do you believe that it's beneficial for representatives to have previous experience in government or politics?

Experience in government can be helpful for understanding procedures, but it is not essential to be an effective representative. Too often, career politicians become part of the establishment, prioritizing party agendas over the needs of their constituents. As an independent-minded conservative, I believe fresh voices bring new energy, challenge the status quo, and uphold conservative principles like limited government, fiscal responsibility, and individual liberty without being tied to entrenched political interests.

True leadership means listening directly to the people and making decisions based on principle, not political careerism. Independent representatives are freer to stand firm against wasteful spending, unnecessary regulation, and government overreach. Voters deserve officials who prioritize their concerns and aren’t beholden to party machines or special interests.

In summary, integrity, independence, and dedication to serving the people matter far more than years spent navigating the political system.

What do you perceive to be the United States' greatest challenges as a nation over the next decade?

1. National Security:

Emerging threats such as cyberattacks, geopolitical rivalries, and unconventional warfare require a robust, adaptive defense strategy. The rise of near-peer competitors like China and Russia demands vigilant intelligence, technological innovation, and strong alliances. At the same time, transparency and oversight must ensure security efforts respect civil liberties and democratic principles.

2. Economic Stability, Housing Crisis, and Banking Reform:

The housing market teeters on the brink of collapse, with skyrocketing prices and limited affordability pushing many families, especially children, into homelessness and housing insecurity. This crisis is compounded by systemic issues within our financial system—particularly fractional reserve banking—which can fuel economic instability and inequality. Comprehensive banking reform and sound monetary policy are urgently needed to create a fairer, more stable economy that serves all Americans.

3. Political Polarization and Governance:

Deep political divisions threaten trust in democratic institutions and effective governance. Rebuilding confidence through transparency, accountability, and enhanced civic engagement is essential to maintain a functioning and united democracy.

4. Public Health and Social Services:

Strengthening healthcare systems, mental health resources, and support for vulnerable populations is critical to national wellbeing and economic productivity.

Do you believe that two years is the right term length for representatives?

Yes

What are your thoughts on term limits?

Term limits must be paired with strong transparency, civic engagement, and reforms that empower voters, so change comes from the people, not just the clock.

Is there a particular representative, past or present, whom you want to model yourself after?

Ron Paul’s willingness to speak truth to power, advocate for transparency in government and the Federal Reserve, and prioritize individual freedom aligns well with an independent-minded conservative philosophy. His example shows how a representative can serve as a true voice of the people while resisting pressures from the political establishment.

draw inspiration from John F. Kennedy’s visionary leadership and deep commitment to public service. Like JFK, I believe in putting the people first and demanding accountability from our government. Today, that means pushing for bold banking reform to fix the instability caused by fractional reserve banking and ensuring fairness for working families. I’m equally committed to housing reform to address rising homelessness and the looming housing market collapse. Above all, I stand for transparent, accountable government that serves the people—not special interests. This independent-minded approach guides my vision for a stronger America.

Both sitting representatives and candidates for office hear many personal stories from the residents of their district. Is there a story that you’ve heard that you found particularly touching, memorable, or impactful?

Not Particularly.

Tell us your favorite joke.

Why don’t scientists trust atoms?

Because they make up everything.

Do you believe that compromise is necessary or desirable for policymaking?

Compromise is essential and beneficial in policymaking within a diverse democracy like the United States. Because elected officials represent people with varied backgrounds, values, and priorities, no single viewpoint can address every concern fully. Compromise enables the creation of policies that balance different interests, ensuring broader support and greater effectiveness.

Without compromise, legislative gridlock can prevent progress on critical issues, leaving important problems unresolved. When lawmakers work together and find common ground, they build trust and collaboration that strengthens democratic institutions. Compromise encourages pragmatic solutions focused on what can realistically be achieved, rather than rigid ideological purity.

However, compromise should not require abandoning core values or ignoring urgent moral issues—especially those involving justice, transparency, and human dignity. Effective governance requires balancing principle with practicality: standing firm on fundamental beliefs while remaining open to dialogue and negotiation.

Ultimately, compromise is not a sign of weakness but of maturity and respect for the democratic process. It fosters unity in a politically polarized environment and helps pass laws that serve the common good. In a nation as diverse as ours, seeking common ground is the path forward for meaningful and lasting progress.

The Constitution says that all bills for raising revenue must originate in the House. What role would this power play in your priorities if elected?

If elected, I would view the House’s constitutional power to originate revenue bills as a vital tool to advance responsible fiscal policy aligned with my priorities. This authority allows the House to directly influence how taxpayer dollars are raised and spent, ensuring transparency, accountability, and fairness from the start.

Given my commitment to banking reform, I would push for revenue measures that promote financial stability, limit harmful speculative practices, and close loopholes that favor special interests over working families. On housing, I’d advocate for targeted funding that supports affordable housing initiatives and combats child homelessness, making sure resources reach those who need them most.

Ultimately, originating revenue bills means the House has the first say in shaping economic policy that impacts every American’s life. I would use this power to prioritize the people’s needs, fight wasteful spending, and create a fairer, more accountable government that truly serves its citizens.

How should the U.S. House use its investigative powers?

The U.S. House should use its investigative powers as a fundamental mechanism to uphold the Constitution, ensure government accountability, and protect the rights of the people. Rooted in the House’s constitutional authority to oversee the executive branch and federal agencies, investigations must be thorough, impartial, and transparent.

Given my commitment to financial transparency, banking reform, and housing affordability, I believe these powers should target uncovering waste, corruption, and abuse—whether in fiscal management, regulatory enforcement, or public programs. For example, probing the Federal Reserve’s policies or housing agencies can reveal shortcomings that harm working families and taxpayers.

Investigations must also respect due process and avoid partisan misuse, focusing instead on truth and justice. By holding government entities accountable and exposing wrongdoing, the House can restore public trust, promote responsible governance, and advance policies that serve the common good.

What organizations or individuals have endorsed your campaign?

N/A

What committees interest you?

House Committee on Financial Service

House Committee on Homeland Security

House Committee on Oversight and Accountability

House Committee on Ways and Means

House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs

What are your views on financial transparency and government accountability?

Financial transparency and government accountability are crucial to a fair and functioning democracy. People deserve to know how money is created, managed, and how policies impact their lives. Without transparency, decisions about interest rates and banking happen behind closed doors, benefiting a few while leaving most vulnerable.

Fractional reserve banking allows banks to lend most deposits while keeping only a fraction in reserve, effectively creating new money as debt. While this system supports economic growth, it also causes boom-and-bust cycles and makes money supply dependent on debt. Since all new money is debt-based, borrowers must repay with interest, which concentrates wealth and perpetuates indebtedness.

The Federal Reserve manages monetary policy by adjusting interest rates to control inflation and employment. However, it is not infallible — its policies can slow growth and disproportionately hurt working families. Its independence and lack of full transparency make public oversight essential.

Interest payments create a cycle where more borrowing is needed to cover previous debts plus interest, which can trap individuals and governments in financial hardship—effectively making people “slaves” to debt. Today’s high interest rates, intended to fight inflation, increase the cost of mortgages and loans, making economic mobility harder for many.

In sum, reform is needed to increase transparency in monetary policy, rethink the risks of fractional reserve banking, and lower interest burdens to promote economic justice and opportunity for all.