Chicago City Wire

Audrey Barrett, a candidate for the 26th District House, has affirmed her strong commitment to gun rights, pledging to protect the Second Amendment. This statement comes at a pivotal moment as it coincides with the U.S. Supreme Court's upcoming hearing on a legal challenge against the contentious gun ban instituted by the Protecting Illinois Communities Act.

“Always protecting your gun rights!” Barrett said on Facebook.

Barrett shared a photo with the caption: “VOID THE FOID SUPPORT GUN OWNERS RIGHTS,” emphasizing her dedication to preserving the rights of responsible gun owners. The post also calls for the elimination of the state gun tax on law-abiding individuals, asserting that gun owners should be able to purchase firearms without unnecessary permits.

The timing of her remarks is significant given that the U.S. Supreme Court is set to hear Federal Firearms Licensees of Illinois v. Pritzker, a lawsuit challenging the constitutionality of the Protecting Illinois Communities Act. This act has banned over 170 types of semi-automatic firearms and sparked intense debates about Second and Fourteenth Amendment rights. The resolution of this case could extend beyond the January 1, 2024 registration deadline for Illinois firearm owners, thereby introducing additional uncertainties and potential delays in implementing the disputed legislation. According to Prairie State Wire, the coalition of plaintiffs which includes Federal Firearms Licensees of Illinois, Guns Save Life, and Gun Owners of America contends that the law unjustly categorizes commonly owned firearms as "assault weapons". They also raise concerns about mandatory registration infringing upon constitutional rights.

South side native Barrett, a single mother of three children, is CEO and Founder of Kingdom 4U Health and Wellness. Barrett is a nurse specializing in pediatric home healthcare and works as a nurse manager.

“Barrett’s efforts have shifted in focus as a result of the scarcity of voices in our legislature who can empathize with those who are struggling. Crime, education, the drug crisis, and a lack of access to healthcare are the problems wreaking havoc on our communities and ones she cares deeply about,” her campaign website reads.

The 26th House District is located entirely within Chicago's boundaries including neighborhoods such as Bronzeville, Downtown, Gold Coast, and Hyde Park. It is currently represented by State Rep. Kam Buckner (D-Chicago).