North Cook News

Charles Hutchinson, a candidate for the Illinois State House District, recently expressed his concerns about the departure of manufacturing from Illinois in a social media post. Hutchinson, who is set to challenge incumbent Democrat Robyn Grabel in the upcoming general election, has pledged to create a more business-friendly environment within the state.

"Devastating news for IL workers and taxpayers as a 4th IL factory has been shut in 2024," said Hutchinson, according to Facebook. "High cost of doing business continues to drive businesses out, taking jobs with them. The latest move comes as Quaker Oats is closing its Danville production plant and moving 510 jobs to facilities outside of the state. Manufacturing and Production is a key element to a stable economy because they provide long term job growth, a large portion of state revenue, and reliable income to workers."

In his post, Hutchinson referred to a Newsweek article that detailed numerous factory closures across Illinois. The report highlighted that four factories have attributed their decisions to close or lay off staff to high manufacturing costs, revenue losses and relocation necessities. These companies include Quaker Oats, Blommer Chocolate, Rivian, and Monterey Mushrooms. Notably, Rivian has not announced any closure plans but did confirm that it would be laying off 100 employees at its plant in Normal, Ill.

Screenshot of Charles Hutchinson's April 4 Facebook post | Charles Hutchinson's campaign Facebook page

According to WCIA's report, Quaker revealed its decision to shut down its Danville facility on June 8. The news station also shared a statement from Quaker which read: "Following the Quaker recall in December 2023, we paused production at the facility. After a detailed review, we determined that meeting our future manufacturing needs would require an extended closure for enhancements and modernization. In order to continue the timely delivery of Quaker products trusted by consumers since 1877, we determined production would need to permanently shift to other facilities. We do not make this decision lightly and recognize the impact it will have on our employees, their families, and the Danville community."

Hutchinson is a lawyer based in Wilmette with deep ties to his community through various roles he has held over time. His involvement includes serving as President of the Chamber of Commerce, Chairman of the Historic Preservation Commission and as a Board member for the Wilmette Theatre. As outlined on his website, Hutchinson's candidacy is driven by his aim to strengthen community connections and advocate for crucial issues such as parental rights, education, neighborhood safety, and tax reduction.

The 18th District, which Hutchinson is vying for, covers north Cook County communities including Evanston, Wilmette, Kenilworth, Northbrook, Northfield, Winnetka and Glencoe. The current representative is Robyn Gabel (R-Evanston), who took office in 2010 and is nearing the end of her term set to conclude on Jan. 8, 2025. Gabel has expressed her intention to seek re-election and continue representing the district in the Illinois House of Representatives, as reported by Ballotpedia.