Illinois State Senate District 53 (unopposed)

Current seat holder: Chris Balkema.

Chris Balkema

Chris Balkema is the incumbent Republican member of the Illinois State Senate representing District 53, having assumed office in January 8, 2025, and is running unopposed for re-election in the November 3, 2026 general election. Chris Balkema earned a bachelor's degree from Taylor University in 1993 and a graduate degree from Bradley University. His career experience includes working in business management and serving as the Grundy County board chairman

· Official legislative page

Campaign site

“I’m pushing hard to create a business friendly environment in Illinois where large and small businesses can grow. we need increase the Illinois gross domestic product by creating jobs in the state of Illinois. I am focusing on policies that will reverse the moving trucks and bring people back to our great state.” (Ballotpedia Candidate Connection (2026))
“Push Cost of Living Improvements – I led 4 straight years of county property tax reductions despite a torrent of unfunded Springfield mandates.” (Ballotpedia Candidate Connection (2024))
“Oppose ALL Illegal Immigration – I only support the legal path for immigrants. We made Grundy County a Non-Sanctuary county and I will push this in Springfield.” (Ballotpedia Candidate Connection (2024))