The small business community in Illinois’ 7th Congressional District is still recovering from the pandemic, especially in historically underserved neighborhoods on the South and West sides, where once-vibrant retail corridors remain boarded up and forgotten.
Thirteen candidates are asking for your vote in IL-07. But if we are serious about revitalizing small businesses and electing responsive, results-driven leadership, there is no stronger champion than Jason Friedman.
I founded Takeout 25 to help local restaurants survive the pandemic and have served as an Oak Park village trustee. In my experience, too many politicians struggle to translate their vision for economic growth into tangible outcomes, often forcing small business owners to fend for themselves.
One of my first conversations with Jason was about his plan to open a constituent service office dedicated specifically to supporting small businesses in our district. This office would provide hands-on assistance with SBA loans and grants, entrepreneurial development programs, and other federal resources to help aspiring and existing business owners bring their ideas to life.
Investing in small businesses is foundational to making long-term progress with affordability, education, and public safety. Strong local businesses create good-paying jobs, revive neighborhoods, attract investment, and encourage expansion of essential community staples like grocery stores and neighborhood retail. A thriving local economy generates the resources we need to support affordable housing, better public schools, and safer streets.
We have the opportunity to elect a new voice in Washington whose priority is building a future for the 7th District in which everyone can thrive, no matter your zip code.
Jason understands that when small businesses succeed, our communities succeed. He has both the ideas and the experience to make that vision a reality. That’s why Jason has my full support as the next Congressman for Illinois’ 7th District.
Ravi Parakkat
Founder, Takeout 25
Former Oak Park Trustee