Chicago City Wire

Republicans are calling out State Sen. Patricia Van Pelt (D-Chicago) for her absences that date to the start of the legislative session.

“Van Pelt‘s disdain for democracy is well shown by her denial of her constituents’ right to an active participant in the legislative process,” Republican strategist Chris Robling told Chicago City Wire. “Democrats don’t need her vote, so it appears no one cares enough to make her do the right thing. I hope someone in her district notices the travesty and organizes opposition to this no-show senator.”

Van Pelt was unopposed in the 2022 election, but made it known basically as soon as the new session began that she was worn down from the job.

“I kept putting it off, and I just got to the point now that I just feel like I can’t come back in here again,” Van Pelt told Playbook earlier this year, Politico reported. “I’d prefer to be in a more peaceful, serene place.” 

Although she is no longer participating in the legislative process, Van Pelt has refused to step down from office. If she were to resign, that would give Senate Majority Leader Don Harmon the green light to appoint a replacement for her to serve District 5 and its more than 218,000 residents, Chicago Wire reported earlier.

Van Pelt's 5th District includes many of the city's highest-income neighborhoods, including parts of the West Loop and Fulton Market District, Lincoln Park, Old Town, Wicker Park, Bucktown, River West, Little Italy, University Village, Tri-Taylor and the Illinois Medical District.

Sources have said they didn’t see Van Pelt cast a single floor vote during the past legislative session or take part in any committee hearings or even vote on any bills. Despite her absences, sources have speculated why the Democrats have not said anything. The only answer that holds water, they said, is that Democrats, with a 40-19 supermajority, don’t need Van Pelt's vote, so they don’t care that she has withdrawn from the process, Chicago Wire reported earlier.

Van Pelt, 65,  has continued to give speeches as a life coach under the name "Dr. Pat," where her ongoing theme has largely centered on "soulmate attraction" and "regaining mastery over life and love."