Mike Simmons

Housing / Tenant Rights

Simmons supports strengthening tenant protections, including giving renters a right of first refusal to purchase their buildings.

As a state senator, Simmons advanced and passed 'Right of First Refusal' legislation through the Illinois Senate to give tenants an opportunity to buy their buildings before sale.

Affordable Housing Policy

Simmons backs expanded state-level housing initiatives to increase affordability and supply.

Illinois Senate housing proposals championed by Simmons have been compared to Gov. Pritzker's BUILD plan, signaling his engagement on broad affordable housing legislation.

Public Transit

Simmons supports increased investment in and reform of public transit systems.

Simmons publicly praised a new transit law as a 'big win,' indicating strong support for public transportation funding and governance changes.

Racial Justice / Civil Rights

Simmons emphasizes racial equity, drawing on his own experiences with racial profiling.

As a Black candidate who had police called on him while canvassing, Simmons has become associated with public discussions of racial bias and civil rights.

Grassroots Campaigning / Voter Engagement

Simmons prioritizes direct, door-to-door voter engagement in his campaign approach.

Multiple news reports describe Simmons personally canvassing apartment buildings in Chicago and Uptown, reflecting a grassroots outreach strategy.

General Progressive Policy Orientation

Simmons aligns with Democratic progressive priorities as a sitting Illinois state senator.

His record as an Illinois Senate Democrat and his legislative focus on tenant rights, housing, and transit suggest a progressive policy orientation, though a federal voting record is not yet available.