Tillman Positions Himself as Best GOP Primary Candidate to Deliver Resources to Illinois
ERIE, Illinois – July 21, 2025 – Dr. Jimmy Lee Tillman II, bestselling author, historian, and conservative leader, today formally announced his candidacy for the United States Senate seat being vacated by Senator Dick Durbin. Speaking to a crowd of supporters at the Corner Cafe in Erie, Dr. Tillman launched his "Promises Made, Promises Kept Tour," highlighting the accomplishments of the Trump Administration while making his case as the strongest Republican candidate in both the primary and general election.
"I am the best candidate in this GOP primary because I have the proven track record, the grassroots organization, and the electoral success to not just win the Republican nomination, but to deliver victory in November," said Dr. Tillman. "While others talk about conservative principles, I've been implementing them through my Martin Luther King Republicans organization for nearly two decades."
- Promises Made, Promises Kept Tour
Dr. Tillman's statewide campaign tour will focus on the tangible achievements of the Trump Administration, which he describes as a model of effective governance that delivered real results for American families.
"The Trump Administration showed what happens when politicians actually keep their promises," Tillman stated. "From securing the border to rebuilding our economy, from achieving energy independence to standing up to China – every major commitment was fulfilled. That's the kind of leadership Illinois needs in Washington."
- From "One Big Beautiful Bill" to "Large Lovely Law"
A centerpiece of Dr. Tillman's campaign message focuses on what he calls the transformation of Trump's signature legislative achievement from the "One Big Beautiful Bill" into what is now the "Large Lovely Law" – comprehensive legislation that continues to benefit American workers and families.
"What started as the 'One Big Beautiful Bill' has become the 'Large Lovely Law' – delivering tax relief for working families, bringing manufacturing jobs back to America, and ensuring our farmers and small business owners have the support they need to thrive," Dr. Tillman explained. "While opponents of this legislation resort to scare tactics without taking the time to examine the real benefits Americans are experiencing, the results speak for themselves. This law proves that when we have leaders who understand how to work within the system, we can achieve transformational results for the American people."
- Resources, Not Resistance
Positioning himself as the Republican candidate best positioned to win the general election, Dr. Tillman emphasized his ability to bring federal resources to Illinois rather than engage in counterproductive political resistance.
"Illinois voters are tired of politicians who go to Washington to make headlines instead of making progress," said Dr. Tillman. "They understand the common sense that Illinois needs representation in the majority party – it's fundamentally democratic to have voices in both parties working for our state. They want leaders who can deliver resources and results, not resistance and rhetoric. My track record as Cook County's largest Republican vote-getter proves I can build the coalitions necessary to win statewide and bring home the federal investments Illinois deserves."
Dr. Tillman cited his success in traditionally Democratic areas as evidence of his broader electability, noting his organization's role in helping secure Trump victories in Michigan through his innovative "Grassroots Anaconda Strategy."
"While my primary opponents focus on appealing to the same narrow base, I've been expanding the Republican Party by reaching voters with a message that transcends traditional party lines," Tillman said. "Illinois needs a Senator who can deliver results – whether it's infrastructure funding, agricultural support, or manufacturing incentives to bring jobs back to our communities."
- Proven Conservative Leadership
Since 2007, Dr. Tillman has led the Martin Luther King Republicans, building a diverse coalition focused on economic opportunity, school choice, religious freedoms, immigration reform, foster care reform, election integrity, and safe communities. As a bestselling author with strong name recognition throughout Illinois, Dr. Tillman brings both grassroots organizing experience and a proven track record of electoral success to the race.
"I'm not running to be another voice in Washington – I'm running to be Illinois' most effective advocate," concluded Dr. Tillman. "The choice for Republican primary voters is clear: we can nominate someone who knows how to win and deliver, or we can repeat the mistakes of the past. Illinois deserves a Senator who will bring home resources, not resistance."
The "Promises Made, Promises Kept Tour" will continue throughout Illinois, with stops planned in major metropolitan areas and rural communities across the state.
WHEN: Monday, July 21st, 9:00 AM
WHERE: Corner Cafe, Erie, Illinois
902 Albany St, 61250, Erie
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PRESS CONTACT INFORMATION:
Phone: (773) 495-0832
Email: ebonytillmanpr@gmail.com
CAMPAIGN CONTACT INFORMATION:
Phone: (219) 885-9315
Email: tillman@jimmylee2dc.com
Website: jimmylee2dc.com