NURSES4NURSES
We all know that nurses have solutions to address the issues in our health care systems but we also know that nurses have a unique understanding our their communities! In 2018, with the support of then ANA-Illinois president, Dan Fraczkowski MS, RN-BC, ANA-Illinois became committed to sharing details about the campaigns of nurses from Illinois running for national, statewide and local offices. This practice continues and this year we have several nurses who have alerted us of their campaigns. If you know other nurses seeking office, please have them reach out an contact us. We are happy to publicize their campaigns on NURSES4NURSES HOW CAN YOU HELP?
- Make a campaign contribution
- Walk precincts
- Attend fundraising events
- Walk in summertime parades
For more information about the nurses seeking office, to see how you can volunteer to help get them elected, please contact their campaign.
IL-14 Congressional District Lauren Underwood (D.) Underwood for Congress
The Nurses4Nurses blog exists to spotlight Illinois nurses running for office, connect them with a statewide network of supporters, and turn frontline expertise into practical policy influence. It informs readers about candidates, timelines, and campaign needs while offering clear ways to help through donations, volunteering, petition signing, and turnout efforts. It also shares ongoing updates that build a durable pipeline of nurse leaders and keeps nurses already in office supported so they can continue to serve effectively.
Nurses PAC is proud to endorse the following nurses running for elected office in Illinois. These candidates bring clinical expertise, leadership, and a commitment to public service. We are also expanding our efforts to educate nurses on running for office and to encourage every nurse in Illinois to vote in this election cycle.
Jennifer Banek, CRNA
Role: Candidate for Democratic State Central Committeewoman, Illinois 10th Congressional District
Link: https://www.banekforillinois.com/ – donation page
Jennifer Banek is a certified registered nurse anesthetist since 2009. She serves as Lake County Coroner and has deep public health experience. She is a veteran, serves in the U.S. Army Reserve, and has led professional nursing organizations including the Illinois Association of Nurse Anesthesiology. Her campaign focuses on strong local representation and healthcare policy. With no primary challenger, Jennifer Banek moves directly to the November general election.
Danielle Penman, MSN, BS, RN
Role: Candidate for Illinois State Senate, District 33
Link: DaniellePenman.com – donation page
Danielle Penman is a registered nurse and holds a Master of Science in Nursing. Her campaign priorities include strengthening access to healthcare and community support across the district. She has a contested Republican primary for Illinois State Senate District 33.
Contact: daniellepenman4senator@gmail.com. Social: Facebook and Instagram @DaniellePenmanforIllinois.
Jaclyn Rodriguez, MSN, RN
Role: Candidate for Lake County Board
Link: Facebook profile – Jaclyn Rodriguez for Lake County Board – donation page
Jaclyn Rodriguez holds a Master of Science in Nursing and works as a registered nurse. Her campaign is rooted in community engagement and bringing healthcare insight to local government decisions. With no primary challenger, Jaclyn Rodriguez moves directly to the November general election.
Contact: jaclynrodriguezlakecountyboard@gmail.com.
Jennifer Levin, BSN, TCRN, TNS, PHRN
Role: Candidate for Illinois State Representative, District 51
Link: https://jennylevin.com/ – donation page
Jennifer Levin is a nurse with specialized trauma and emergency certifications. She focuses her campaign on safer communities, improved public health, and policies that reflect frontline healthcare needs. With no primary challenger, Jennifer Levin moves directly to the November general election.
Karen Battaglia, DNP, RN, CEN, TCRN, TNS
Role: Candidate for Illinois State Senate, District 32
Link: Facebook profile – Karen Battaglia for State Senate and donation page
Karen Battaglia is a doctorally prepared nurse with emergency and trauma credentials. She brings years of clinical and leadership experience to her campaign, emphasizing community health and evidence-informed policy. With no primary challenger, Karen Battaglia moves directly to the November general election.
Nurses PAC encourages all nurses to explore these candidates’ platforms and get involved in building nurse leadership across Illinois. Our training and resources are designed to help nurses prepare for public leadership roles. We urge every nurse in the state to register, stay informed, and vote in this year’s election cycle.