West Central Reporter

Daniel Swanson, the Republican candidate for the Illinois House seat for District 74, presented his qualifications for office recently, including his agricultural roots and time spent as an officer of the Illinois National Guard.

As a member of the Swanson family farming operation, he has a wide range of experience in the agricultural community. Swanson maintains a Department of Agriculture Pesticide ID card and has been a member of the Henry County Farm Bureau. To successfully run a farming operation requires a knowledge of modern farming practices and green solutions to keep the soil productive while maintaining environmental standards. Careful management keeps the family business on a fiscally responsible path to success.

In addition to his experience in the agricultural field, Swanson spent over three years as a guardsman and 20 years on active duty with the Illinois Army National Guard. He retired in 2001, but was recalled to active duty in 2007 and again in 2010.

During his 2007-2008 tour of Iraq, Swanson not only coordinated and synchronized the Iraqi Army units but also assisted in developing the more than $1.4 billion budget. The 2010-2013 tour saw Swanson transitioning the Lead Material Integration Mission from the Pentagon to the Army Sustainment Command. His leadership led to significant cost savings for the mission.

Swanson is the superintendent of the Henry County Veterans Assistance Commission. His duties include providing financial aid and transportation for Henry County veterans as they access services at the Iowa Veterans Hospital in Iowa City.

Swanson is running on a platform of fiscal responsibility, cutting spending, bringing employers back to Illinois and continuing to assist veterans in accessing their benefits. His experience in managing billion dollar budgets in the military and maintaining a success family business will serve him well in the legislature.