EDWARDSVILLE - The League of Women Voters and the NAACP hosted a candidate forum ahead of the primary election on March 17, 2026. A candidate for the Illinois House of Representatives for the 109th District, Zachary Meyer, presented his platform.
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Incumbent Charlie Meier, a Republican, was unable to attend the forum on Feb. 25, 2026. Meyer, also a Republican, introduced himself and his ideas.
Meyer explained that he is an attorney and a professor. He started his own law firm and grew it into a successful business.
“I didn’t grow up with money. I didn’t have political connections. Everything that I’ve achieved has come from long nights, hard work and personal responsibility, not handouts. That's exactly the mindset that I’ll take to Springfield,” he said. “I’m running to protect the American dream, to stand up for working families, to defend free speech, to fight constant tax increases and to make sure that the government works for the people, not the other way around.”
The first question asked, “What is the role of our state government in national politics?”
Meyer said the Tenth Amendment makes it clear that the federal government's role is limited, and any powers not expressly stated to belong to the federal government are reserved for the states. He believes this means “government remains closer to the people and more responsive to local needs.”
The second question asked, “Do you believe the state benefits from more or fewer immigrants? Do you support refugees moving into our state?”
Meyer said industries across Illinois benefit from immigrant labor, which strengthens both the economy and the communities, but that immigration “must be legal and structured.” He argued that illegal immigration “empowers” criminals, and reform should focus on securing the borders and creating efficient legal pathways that do not target “families seeking opportunities.”
The third question asked, “What do you believe is the most reliable and effective energy source to support our growing demand?”
Meyer believes nuclear energy is ideal because it is not weather-dependent and produces no carbon emissions. He said he also supports next-generation nuclear technologies, like small modular reactors, to meet regional energy demand.
The primary election is scheduled for March 17, 2026.
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