North Cook News

Michele Hunter, a candidate for Illinois State House District 54, expressed her satisfaction at an event dedicated to celebrating life and achievements in the protection of the unborn. "It was great to spend the evening celebrating life and achievements made to protect the unborn," said Hunter. The Republican contender is set to face incumbent Democrat Mary Beth Canty in the forthcoming general election. Her comments were posted after attending the Illinois Right to Life banquet on May 10.

"Last night I attended the Illinois Right to Life banquet with keynote speaker and fellow children's book author Kirk Cameron," said Hunter, according to Facebook. "It was great to spend the evening celebrating life and achievements made to protect the unborn. Springfield Democrats support abortion through all nine months of pregnancy with no restrictions and have made Illinois the abortion capitol of the Midwest. As your State Representative, I will fight against these extremist policies and work to protect as many innocent lives as possible."

The banquet took place at Drury Lane Theater and Events in Oakbrook Terrace. The evening commenced with a cocktail hour at 6 p.m., followed by dinner at 7 p.m. VIP ticket holders enjoyed a private cocktail hour with actor turned film producer and talk show host Kirk Cameron, who was also the keynote speaker for the event. According to Illinois Right to Life, Cameron has produced his "American Campfire Revival" urging families of faith "to return to principles that will bring blessing and protection to America." His other works include a documentary titled "The Homeschool Awakening," and a film called "Lifemark," which emphasized the value of life in the womb and adoption.

Screenshot of Michele Hunter's May 11 Facebook post | Michele Hunter for IL State Representative Facebook page

The event also featured other speakers such as Emcee Mary Kate Zander, director of Illinois Right to Life, and Board President Rosemary Hackett. Sponsors included the Catholic Order of Foresters, Luse Holdings, Inc., AM560 The Answer, Fabulous Freddies Italian Eatery, Mr. Glenn Wilke, Mr. and Mrs. Daniel and Lucretia Costello, and IPM as per information from the event website.

Hunter hails from a small town in Iowa where she worked in her family’s gift shop and coffee café. She graduated near the top of her class from both undergraduate studies and law school at the University of Iowa. After graduation, she served fifteen years as a law clerk with the Second District Appellate Court. As a legislator, Hunter intends to utilize her legal expertise in reading and analyzing legislation to advocate for her constituents and address issues facing her community. In addition to her legal career, Hunter is a published author, has worked for a marketing firm in Chicago, holds a license as a Foster Caregiver and Adoptive Parent, and actively supports animal welfare organizations, including Bombshell Bullies according to her campaign website.