The McLean County Chamber of Commerce (MCCC) Political Action Committee (PAC), an independent entity of the Chamber with its own Board of Directors, has officially announced its endorsements for the upcoming municipal elections in Bloomington and Normal. These endorsements cover candidates for the positions of mayor and council members in both cities.
The PAC, which aims to support pro-business and pro-growth candidates, conducted a comprehensive review process before making its decisions. This included releasing responses from all 16 candidates to the 2025 Consolidated Election Questionnaire, hosting a Candidate Meet & Greet, and conducting individual candidate interviews.
“These candidates demonstrated their commitment to pro-business, pro-growth policies or showed a strong desire to engage with the business community on key issues impacting us,” said PAC Chair Ryan Scritchlow. “We encourage voters to support these candidates at the polls starting February 20th through April 1st. Doing so will ensure we have elected officials who will create a business-friendly environment in Bloomington-Normal.”
Contested Race Endorsements
City of Bloomington Mayor:
- Dan Brady – With decades of leadership experience in the Illinois House of Representatives, Brady’s track record includes strong advocacy for business. His dedication to the community and work ethic position him as a highly engaged, pro-business leader for Bloomington.
City of Bloomington Council Ward 1:
- Jenna Kearns – Having earned an endorsement in her successful 2023 campaign, Kearns has remained actively engaged with the business community. Her pro-business voting record includes support for key initiatives such as the Downtown Streetscape Project and housing developments.
City of Bloomington Council Ward 9:
- Roger Bedeker – A newcomer to elected office, Bedeker has expressed strong support for pro-business policies on a variety of critical issues.
Town of Normal Mayor:
- Kathleen Lorenz – Endorsed in her past three successful campaigns for Town Council (2015, 2019, 2023), Lorenz has consistently engaged deeply with the business community and upheld her commitment to pro-business stances. Her dedication makes her a strong candidate for the role of mayor.
Uncontested Race Endorsements
City of Bloomington Council:
- Ward 3: Sheila Montney
- Ward 5: Mike Straza
- Ward 7: Mollie Ward
Town of Normal Council At-Large:
- Kevin McCarthy
- Scott Preston
- Rory Roberge
About the PAC
The McLean County Chamber of Commerce Political Action Committee, established in 2009, is a bipartisan organization dedicated to supporting candidates, committees, and issues that promote a robust economy, a favorable business climate, and a high quality of life for McLean County residents.
For more information, visit the PAC’s website at www.mcleancochamber.org. A copy of the PAC’s report filed with the State Board of Elections is available on the board’s official website or for purchase from the State Board of Elections in Springfield, Illinois.
Contact: Travis Lickey
Sr. Manager of Programs & Marketing
Email: travis@mcleancochamber.org
Website: www.mcleancochamber.org