Illinois Representative Bob Morgan on Fostering Hope

In this week’s episode, Ryan Coonerty sits down with Illinois State Representative Bob Morgan. They reflect on the horrific mass shooting in the representative's community of Highland Park during a 4th of July Parade in 2022 – a timely topic as he returns from a visit to the White House, as he co-chairs the Illinois House Firearm Safety Reform Working Group. Morgan shares his experience working on this crucial issue and the personal ties that ignited his passion for combating gun violence. In addition, Ryan and Representative Morgan delve into his highly debated efforts to eliminate junk fees in Illinois, his commitment to reducing healthcare costs, and his approach to building strong relationships within the legislature, as well as his experience as a Jewish leader during a surge of antisemitism across the country. Tune in to learn about his push to end daylight savings time and the obstacles to making this a reality. 

IN THIS EPISODE: 

• [01:04] Introducing Illinois State Representative Bob Morgan and his efforts to work on gun safety.

• [02:36] The stories of gun violence that ignited his passion for taking this issue seriously.

• [05:23] Prospects for reducing these kinds of incidents in US communities.

• [07:43] Representative Bob’s journey to public service.

• [13:17] Building and maintaining relationships with colleagues by building your understanding of them.

• [14:26] Issues he has worked on and why healthcare is a focus for him.

• [20:04] Why no changes have been made to daylight savings.

• [22:40] Facing the rise of antisemitism as a member of the Jewish caucus.

• [27:26] Predictions for the upcoming convention and the elections to follow.