Kankakee Times

Illinois Congresswoman Robin Kelly has used her social media platform to address concerns about the ongoing government shutdown and its impact on Illinois residents, as well as to highlight her engagement with the state’s agricultural community.

On October 21, 2025, Kelly posted: "Illinois families are terrified they can’t afford groceries next week. Millions of Illinoisans just got alerts that their SNAP benefits are at risk. While Trump is building a ballroom, he’s leaving Americans to starve. This is the real cost of the Republican Shutdown."

The following day, Kelly shared her participation in a major agricultural event: "I joined thousands of farmers and ag leaders in Decatur for the 2025 Farm Progress Show. A highlight was visiting the @UofIllinois tent to see students and faculty leading innovative research to strengthen Illinois agriculture and support local farmers. " This post underscores her continued engagement with local farmers and research institutions.

Later on October 22, Kelly addressed transportation issues caused by the shutdown: "The shutdown is causing flight delays in Chicago due to air traffic control staff shortages. Instead of ending the shutdown, Republicans are making life harder for travelers, workers, and airports across the country."

Robin Kelly has represented Illinois in Congress since 2013 and has consistently won re-election by wide margins. In 2022, she defeated Thomas Lynch with 67.1% of the vote; in 2020, she won against Theresa Raborn with 78.8%; in 2018, she secured 81.1% against David Merkle; in 2016, she defeated John Morrow with 79.8%; and in 2014, she prevailed over Eric Wallace with 78.5%. These results reflect her longstanding support among voters in her district.