Episodes

  • We're Number One - How Springfield Is Raiding Your Wallet
    Aug 31 2025

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    Our budgeting process is a disaster. Last-minute bills, rushed midnight votes, thousands of pages - and not a single counter-budget from republicans. It’s not leadership, it’s surrender.

    I refuse to sit on the sidelines - digging through the numbers myself and finding $5 billion in savings. Illinois families deserve accountability, honesty, and transparency.

    In this episode of Jed Talks, I expose how Springfield’s “budget” isn’t budgeting at all - it’s a strategic attack on your pocketbook, raising your cost of living.

    Thanks for listening! Follow Jed on Facebook for real time updates.

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    14 mins
  • "Daddy, Was I Kidnapped?” — Answering the Tough Questions
    Aug 27 2025

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    This week, I close out the DCFS intern investigation issue — after direct exchanges with the director, we’re at a stalemate. But silence isn’t an option.

    Where are the other elected officials on this injustice? Most avoid it because it’s not politically safe. But we’re called to be a voice for the voiceless, even when the questions cut deep.

    Like when my 4-year-old adopted daughter asked me, “Daddy, was I kidnapped?” Or when families come forward, saying DCFS didn’t conduct a thorough investigation. These aren’t easy conversations — but leadership isn’t about avoiding the hard ones.

    I hold this office with an open hand, ready to step into the fray every time. Because titles fade, comfort fades… but courage echoes forever.

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    17 mins
  • DCFS: License or Certification? The Truth Matters
    Aug 18 2025

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    Should someone with ZERO experience have the power to remove your children from your home?

    In Illinois, DCFS says yes!

    Hear the facts in my latest podcast.

    Thanks for listening! Follow Jed on Facebook for real time updates.

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    21 mins
  • Voting Against My Own Bill
    Aug 11 2025

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    Ever hear of a lawmaker voting against their own bill?

    In Episode 4 of Jed Talks, I break down exactly why I did just that — and how it exposed a deeper truth about Springfield politics.

    It wasn’t about games or headlines. It was about principle. The bill got stuffed into an omnibus package filled with garbage, so I voted no. What happened next revealed exactly how Democrats — and even some Republicans — really operate under the dome.

    Listen now to get the full story. This is how the sausage is made.

    Thanks for listening! Follow Jed on Facebook for real time updates.

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    18 mins
  • Who Turned Off The Lights
    Aug 3 2025

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    Illinois families are feeling the heat, and not just from the weather. Electric bills are soaring, and it’s no accident.

    In this episode, I break down what the Climate and Equitable Jobs Act (CEJA) actually did, how both parties voted for it, and why your power bill is the receipt for bad policy.

    I explain how the MISO and PJM grid systems work, why coal and gas are vanishing faster than you think, and how solar fields - even if we paved Kendall County - can’t replace our baseload power.

    It’s time to stop pretending this energy crisis came out of nowhere. Let’s discuss who killed the power and how we fix it.

    Thanks for listening! Follow Jed on Facebook for real time updates.

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    19 mins
  • Struggle Bus: Why Republicans Are Stuck, How We Get Moving
    Jul 27 2025

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    Illinois Republicans are on the ropes - and it’s time we face the reality. In this episode, I break down why the party is stalled, what’s holding us back, and how everyday folks can spark real change. It’s not about finger-pointing - it’s about stepping up and turning the tide.

    Bonus: A surprise guest appearance by my dog, Rusty 🐾 (he’s got strong opinions and zero filter).

    Thanks for listening! Follow Jed on Facebook for real time updates.

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    26 mins
  • Mic On, Gloves Off
    Jul 20 2025

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    In the very first episode of Jed Talks, I explain why I’m stepping behind the mic - and why Illinois needs a voice willing to speak plainly. Then we dive into the latest head-scratcher out of Springfield: record tax revenues … and yet, more taxes? Including a new hit on leased property, getting one of my constituents fired up, and rightfully so.

    Thanks for listening! Follow Jed on Facebook for real time updates.

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    17 mins