About the Candidate
Name: Gary Grasso
DOB: April 25, 1951
Occupation: Attorney at Law
Political Experience: Mayor of Burr Ridge (2005-2012) 2019 - Present; DuPage County Board Member 2012-2018; DuPage 911 Chairman 2014-2018; and DuPage Board of Health 1999-2010.
Website: https://garygrasso.com/
Facebook: Gary Grasso for Congress 6th District
Candidate Statement
Hello. I’m Gary Grasso, Republican Candidate for Congress from the new Illinois 6th District that includes Cook and DuPage Counties.
Growing up, my parents taught me family first, freedom always,
and to pursue the American dream by working hard and using your God-given talents.
I was the first in my family to earn a college degree and then worked full time while attending law school at night for 4 years. I have been a lawyer for 40 years.
My wife Janet and I have been married for 43 years. Together, we have six wonderful children – and six adorable grandchildren.
But, I fear the American Dream is becoming unattainable for them.
Democrat leaders in Washington have destroyed American jobs and businesses by imposing unconstitutional mandates, damaged our kid's mental health and education, and protected criminals.
One year into the Biden Administration, we have already lost our energy independence, the crisis on the border is growing, and inflation is the worst we have seen in decades – hurting the most vulnerable among us.
Now, more than ever - we need new leadership in Washington.
I know the new district because I am the only candidate who has lived and governed in Cook and DuPage.
As Chairman of DuPage’s 911 Board, I led the effort to build two state-of-the-art call centers that give first responders the best chance to have good outcomes.
As Mayor during the pandemic, I led the fight to keep businesses operating safely and cautiously, and was among the first suburban Mayors to call on Governor Pritzker to do the same.
As a fiscally responsible Mayor, Burr Ridge has the highest bond rating possible for any municipality - and I am very proud to say, the village is debt-free.
And, as your new Congressperson, I will fight for these values in Washington.
Thank you for listening to my message.
Candidate Q&A
Why are you running?
I want to restore the American Dream that I have been able to live. I fear my children and especially my grandchildren will not be able to live the American Dream. I'm running for Congress to ensure that the federal government protects people and property by enforcing our criminal laws and prosecuting those that break the law. And to stop inflationary spending and restore fiscal responsibility in Washington by regaining a Republican majority in the House of Representatives.
What does this office do well, and what needs fixing?
Almost nothing which is why we need a change in leadership. Voters are looking for candidates who can work with both sides of the aisle, are not embroiled in ethics investigations and are not pushing an agenda on the far left.
What is the most pressing issue facing your constituents and how do you plan on addressing it?
I believe inflation is the most pressing issue and it must be addressed by responsible, fiscal policies that stops unprecedented spending of monies we do not have and revenues that are inadequate to service such enormous debt.
What specific steps would you take to ensure your office is accessible and responsive to your constituents?
Similar to functioning as mayor, creating a constant flow of information to my constituents so they know what is happening and so they also can inform me of their concerns.
