Peoria Standard

Darin LaHood, U.S. Congressman representing Illinois’ 16th district, has recently taken to social media to voice concerns about public safety, foreign cyber threats, and political violence.

On September 8, 2025, LaHood criticized state and local officials in Illinois for their immigration policies. In his post he stated: "Gov Pritzker and Mayor Brandon Johnson’s sanctuary policies have shielded criminal illegal immigrants, undermined law enforcement, and endangered our communities. It’s past time to hold criminals accountable and prioritize the safety of Illinois families."

A day later, on September 9, 2025, LaHood addressed concerns over international cyber-espionage activities attributed to China. He wrote: "The CCP has been ramping up their cyber-espionage as part of their continued efforts to undermine the United States. We must quickly address this growing threat and hold the CCP accountable for this attempt to illegally gain an economic advantage in trade negotiations."

On September 10, 2025, LaHood commented on recent incidents of political violence in the United States. He said: "The rise in political violence across our country is abhorrent. This vile attack on @charliekirk11 must be condemned in the strongest possible terms and justice must be served. Please join me in praying for him and his family."

LaHood began serving as a member of Congress for Illinois' 16th district after replacing Aaron Schock in 2015. In the most recent general election held in 2022, he secured victory against Elizabeth Haderlein with approximately two-thirds of the vote.