Homer Township ReSet Slate a “No-Show” at Will County Republican Debate Amidst Democratic Endorsement Controversy (Homer Township, IL) — The Homer Township ReSet slate, running as purported Republicans in the upcoming February 25, 2025 Republican Primary, failed to appear at a debate hosted by the Will County Republican Central Committee, raising further doubts about their commitment to the party’s platform.
The ReSet slate has already faced criticism for receiving an endorsement from the Will County Democratic Party, a move that has fueled speculation about political crossover efforts. The Illinois Review recently reported that local Democrats and establishment Republicans appear to be working together to unseat a conservative slate led by Steve Balich, a vocal advocate for traditional Republican values. The Homer Township Democrats have even urged voters to pull Republican ballots in the primary to vote against the conservative slate.
Adding to the controversy, a press release from a group calling themselves “Save Homer Township” on January 30, 2025, warned voters about the implications of crossover voting. With no Democratic candidates on the ballot, the Will County Democratic Party has been actively encouraging all voters to request Republican ballots. While legal, this tactic could have unintended consequences, including permanently labeling voters as Republicans in party records, which could impact future political involvement, endorsements, and even eligibility to run for office.
“It is important for voters to make informed decisions about their ballot choices,” said a representative from Save Homer Township. “While we respect everyone’s right to vote as they see fit, we encourage residents to be fully aware of how their voting records may be affected.”
The ReSet slate’s absence from the debate, coupled with their Democratic backing, has raised concerns among local conservatives about the integrity of the Republican primary process. Many view their no-show as a refusal to engage with the party they claim to represent, further solidifying suspicions that their campaign is a coordinated effort to shift local Republican leadership in a more Democrat-friendly direction.
Steve Balich, the incumbent Homer Township Supervisor running for reelection, expressed his disappointment regarding the ReSet slate’s failure to attend the debate. “I’m a little upset that the other side didn’t show up because I was looking forward to an actual debate where we can talk about the issues and they can show how much experience they have and how much expertise they have and compare it to what we have,” said Balich. “Frankly, I know we would have won, but they can’t be sure because they didn’t show up. God bless them, though.”
Balich also highlighted the accomplishments of his board, emphasizing their fiscal responsibility and commitment to the community. “We cut $300,000 out of our levy in the last four years. That’s a lot of money, especially in a time of inflation and everything going up in price,” he stated. “We built a Civic Center without a tax increase, and we’re going to set up all kinds of nice programs for everybody in the community without raising taxes.”
Other members of Balich’s slate also emphasized their conservative credentials and dedication to maintaining fiscal discipline. Trustee Mike Bonomo, running for reelection, underscored the team’s achievements: “We never have and we never will raise taxes.” He was joined by fellow trustees Vicki Bozen and Angel Shake, who highlighted their contributions to the township, including community events, senior assistance programs, and infrastructure projects. “We are the die-hard Republicans, and we need to keep this township going strong,” Bozen asserted.
With the primary less than a month away, Homer Township voters are being urged to carefully examine the affiliations and records of the candidates before casting their ballots.
Homer Township ReSet Slate a “No-Show” at Will County Republican Debate Amidst Democratic Endorsement Controversy
