Kankakee Times

Kimberly Earling, a Democrat challenging incumbent State Sen. Patrick Joyce (D-Essex) for the State Senate in District 40, is picking support in response to Joyce's support for the Gotion lithium-ion car battery plant.

Joyce’s stance has drawn criticism from the Concerned Citizens of Manteno, a non-profit group actively opposing the plant.

Earling opposes the battery plant which is unpopular with much of Manteno.

“Here you go Democrats!” Piker said on Facebook..

“Kimberly Earling is running for State Senate against Senator Patrick Joyce. Many of you are aware that Joyce is a supporter of the Gotion plant. Well, I have great news!!? Kimberly, DOES NOT support the Gotion plant. Many of you have heard me say, find me a Democrat that does not support Gotion and I will support their election efforts. I commend her for having the courage to stand up to her own party! People like Kimberly deserve our support. Welcome Kimberly to this battle and I believe we can primary Joyce! Let's do this!!?”

The 40th State Senate District includes all or parts of Bourbonnais, Bradley, Chicago Heights, Coal City, Essex, Flossmoor, Frankfort, Glenwood, Hazel Crest, Homewood, Joliet, Kankakee, Manhattan, Matteson, Mokena, Monee, New Lenox, Park Forest, Richton Park, Steger, University Park and Wilmington.

The Gotion plant has been a focal point of contention, with the Concerned Citizens of Manteno filing a lawsuit against Gotion and the Village of Manteno. Allegations include toxic threats, national security concerns and allegedly illegal rezoning.

The group aims to prevent Gotion from releasing toxic chemicals into the community and reverse the alleged illegal rezoning of the Gotion property.

Despite community opposition and concerns raised during public hearings, the Manteno Planning Commission voted unanimously to change the zoning for the Gotion plant from light industrial to heavy industrial.

This decision has fueled frustration and disappointment among the Concerned Citizens of Manteno, leading them to engage in legal action against the approval.

After the Manteno Planning Commission voted unanimously to change the zoning for the proposed Gotion lithium-ion car battery plant from light industrial to heavy industrial, the Concerned Citizens of Manteno expressed frustration and disappointment.

The group is not limiting their efforts to legal action alone.

With an eye on the upcoming April 2025 elections, they plan to engage in electoral activism, aiming to replace officials who have supported the Gotion plant.

This marks a significant development as both a Democrat and a Republican challenger are expected to vie for the State Senate seat in District 40.