Rockford Sun

State Representative John M. Cabello (R-Machesney Park) has criticized Governor JB Pritzker for not cooperating with federal efforts to mobilize the Illinois National Guard. Cabello described this decision as an example of what he called the Governor’s "radical, soft-on-crime, open-border agenda," which he argues puts political interests ahead of public safety.

“Governor Pritzker is more interested in protecting his personal political interests than protecting Illinois families,” said Cabello. “His continued attacks on law enforcement and refusal to work with federal partners make our communities less safe. This is what happens when liberal leaders put ideology before responsibility.”

Cabello, who previously served as a Rockford Police Detective, expressed concern about what he sees as a lack of regard for public safety by the Governor.

“While violent crime continues to plague our cities and illegal crossings at the border are surging, Pritzker and his Democrat allies have tied the hands of police, weakened accountability, and opened the door to complete chaos,” Cabello said. “Now he’s refusing to cooperate with the National Guard when our country needs unity and strength. That’s unacceptable.”

He called on Governor Pritzker to support law enforcement agencies and members of the National Guard rather than criticize them.

“Governor Pritzker’s soft-on-crime policies and open-border rhetoric have failed Illinois,” Cabello added. “It’s time he stops siding with radical activists and starts siding with the men and women who protect our streets, our borders, and our freedoms.”

Cabello was elected as a Republican representative for Illinois’ 90th House District in 2023 after succeeding Tom Demmer.

The 90th District includes parts of Winnebago, Stephenson, and Boone counties such as Rockford, Machesney Park, Freeport, Roscoe, Loves Park, Rockton, South Beloit, Caledonia, Durand, Rock City, and Rockton.