North Cook News

Illinois State House District 18 candidate Charles Hutchinson expressed concerns about the environmental impact of wind turbines. "The damage which can be caused by wind turbines has always been of great concern to me," Hutchinson stated in a Facebook post on June 9. Hutchinson, who is running against incumbent Democrat Robyn Gabel, made his statement while sharing a link to a Chicago Tribune story.

"As someone who loves nature and understands the balance necessary to sustain our living environment, the damage which can be caused by wind turbines has always been of great concern to me," said Hutchinson, according to Facebook. "I am happy to see people taking the issue seriously, but more needs to be done.loves."

According to the Chicago Tribune article shared by Hutchinson, Illinois is the fifth-largest wind energy-producing state, generating up to 7% of the country's wind energy. The article highlights that hundreds of thousands of birds and nearly one million bats die annually due to collisions with wind turbines across the United States.

Screenshot of Charles Hutchinson's June 9 Facebook post | Charles Hutchinson For IL Facebook page

Mona Khalil from the Energy and Wildlife Division of the U.S. Geological Survey told the Chicago Tribune that "it’s clear that wind farms, such as the one in DeWitte County, present a problem" for bat and bird populations. Khalil added that it would be useful if organizations like hers could access information on bird and bat strikes involving wind farm turbines.

As an Independent Republican, Hutchinson emphasized his core values, which include "Freedom, Equality, Opportunity, Limited Government, Low Taxes, and the belief in the Right of all People to be Exceptional." He pledged to actively listen to diverse voices and ideas while avoiding echo chambers. Hutchinson's approach involves asking questions, employing critical thinking, and prioritizing people over party allegiance. He advocates for common interests over special interests to elevate collective well-being above partisan considerations.

The 18th District encompasses north Cook County communities including Evanston, Wilmette, Kenilworth, Northbrook, Northfield, Winnetka, and Glencoe. Incumbent Robyn Gabel (D-Evanston) assumed office in 2010 and is nearing the end of her current term on January 8, 2025. Gabel is seeking re-election to continue representing the district in the Illinois House of Representatives.