As we move into the late summer months here in the 115th District, I’m grateful for every opportunity to stay connected with the people I serve. While the legislature is no longer in session, my work on your behalf continues every day, whether it’s attending community events, hosting coffee talks, or presenting House certificates to honor outstanding achievements.
In this edition of the Friess Frame, I’ll be sharing updates on efforts to address gerrymandering, highlights from recent district activities, the looming levee crisis, and local conversations around energy bills. My office is always here to help, so please don’t hesitate to reach out if we can be of service.
Thank you for the privilege of serving as your State Representative. I look forward to seeing many of you at upcoming events across the district!
Fighting Against Gerrymandering
This past month, Governor JB Pritzker appeared on national late-night television and joked about Illinois’ congressional maps, even going so far as to suggest Democrats could redraw them to gain even more political advantage. His comments highlight the ongoing hypocrisy when it comes to so-called “fair maps.”
Despite once claiming to support an independent redistricting commission, Governor Pritzker went on to sign into law some of the most gerrymandered maps in the nation, maps drawn behind closed doors by his Democratic supermajority. National outlets like The Wall Street Journal have taken notice, pointing out that while Democrats criticize gerrymandering in states like Texas, Illinois politicians are responsible for one of the most partisan maps in the country.
House Republicans have pushed for reform through measures like HJRCA 5 and continue to challenge partisan maps in court. Citizens should be picking their politicians, not the other way around. I’ll continue fighting for independent redistricting so Illinoisans can finally have the fair representation they deserve.
Wrapping Up District Wide Coffee Tour
To stay connected with constituents and hear directly from the people we serve, our office has been hosting Coffee Talks throughout the district. These gatherings have been a great opportunity to sit down, enjoy a cup of coffee, and have real conversations about the issues that matter most, whether it’s taxes, energy costs, public safety, education, or anything in between. I’m grateful for the strong turnout at each stop and to everyone who took the time to share their thoughts and concerns. These discussions help shape the work I do in Springfield and ensure your voices are heard loud and clear. This year, we hosted Coffee Talks in:
June 4 – Columbia
June 17 – Pinckneyville
August 12 – New Athens (with State Representative Kevin Schmidt)
August 20 – Waterloo
As we wrap up Coffee Talks for 2025, I want to thank everyone who joined us and participated in these important conversations. I look forward to seeing you at future events across the district!
Addressing Looming Levee Crisis
On August 12, 2025, I joined State Senator Terri Bryant in sending a letter to Governor JB Pritzker urging immediate action to prevent catastrophic flooding from a growing scour hole along the Stringtown levee system near Prairie du Rocher. We called for urgent state funding and direct coordination with local officials to address this crisis.
“A failure at this location will be disastrous,” I said in the letter. “It threatens Monroe, Randolph, and surrounding counties. Lives, homes, and farms are at risk. The Governor must direct IEMA to act and fund this now.”
Many people have also asked why this issue is only now being discussed publicly. The fact is, my office and I have been aware of the scour hole and working with local, state, and federal officials since January 2025. Local officials have been trying to obtain funding for the repair for years. Recent developments have simply brought it to wider attention. Protecting our communities is my highest priority, and I will continue fighting to secure the funding and solutions needed to keep residents safe.
I encourage residents to contact their elected officials and the Governor’s Office to show their support for swift action. A copy of the official letter can be found on my website at repfriess.com.
Sign to protect our communities
Honoring Constituents Across The District
Over the past several weeks, I’ve had the privilege of honoring some truly outstanding individuals in our community, including veterans who have served with distinction, students achieving great milestones, and even a constituent celebrating an incredible 101st birthday. Each of these moments reminds me just how much talent, dedication, and resilience we have right here in the 115th District.
I am proud to represent such a remarkable community, and I believe it’s important to shine a light on those who make it special. I will continue to recognize and celebrate more individuals in the weeks ahead as a way of saying thank you for their service, hard work, and contributions to our district.
Truman Cashman – Oldest WWII Veteran in Randolph County!
Adam Walker – 1st Place SIJHSAA Class S Discuss!
Elsie Logan – Celebrating 101st Birthday!
If you know someone who deserves to be recognized, or if you would like to be considered yourself, please don’t hesitate to contact my office. It is one of the greatest joys of this job to honor the people who make our communities strong!
Electricity Bills On The Rise
Over the past few weeks, my office has heard from many families concerned about rising energy rates. Beginning June 1 through September 30, Ameren’s supply price jumped nearly 50%, with the company estimating about a 22% increase in total bills. However, for many families across Southern Illinois, the impact is proving to be even greater.
To be clear, Ameren does not profit from these supply rates; they pass through wholesale costs. I remain in close contact with Ameren officials to ensure I have the latest information to share with you. The real problem lies with the Democratic majorities in Springfield, whose aggressive energy mandates and policies have driven up costs without considering the financial burden on working families.
I will continue fighting for affordable and reliable energy for Southern Illinois, and my office is here to help if you need assistance navigating your utility options. Please don’t hesitate to contact us at 618-282-7284.
Hosting Town Hall
I’m hosting a Fall State Legislative Town Hall in Waterloo on Tuesday, September 9! I’ll be joined by local and federal officials to share updates on the ongoing scour hole issue in rural Monroe County.
I hope you can join us for this critical discussion; I look forward to seeing you there!
As we look ahead to the upcoming Veto Session, I remain committed to standing up for the values that matter most to our district: fiscal responsibility, individual freedoms, safer communities, and greater government transparency. While we’ve made progress on several important fronts, there’s still much work to be done.
I will oppose any and all tax increases pushed by the Democrats, fight for commonsense policies in Springfield, and ensure that the voices of Southern Illinois families are heard loud and clear. Whether it’s through legislation, district events, or simply listening to your concerns, I’m here to serve YOU, and I’m proud to represent this district every day.
Thank you for your continued trust and engagement. Let’s keep moving forward together. Stay updated with me by subscribing to receive future updates, and follow me on social media for upcoming events!