Dillan Vancil Brings Family-First Conservatism to the Race for
Illinois’ 17th Congressional District
FREEPORT, IL – September 26, 2025
Here at Fighting4Freeport, we believe leadership begins with moral conviction and the courage to speak truth on issues that matter most to our communities. Before any candidate earns the trust of the people, they must answer one essential question — a question that should never be met with hesitation or ambiguity:
Do you believe that all pedophiles should be investigated, prosecuted, and punished to the fullest extent of the law — without exception, without delay, and without political protection? Yes or No?
We ask this question not just because of what we’ve seen unfold on the national stage, but because under our region’s current elected officials, sex crimes and pedophilia have become an epidemic here at home — in Freeport, Stephenson County, and across Northwestern Illinois.
Our communities, and especially our children, deserve absolute clarity from anyone seeking elected office. There should be no question as to where our leaders stand when it comes to protecting the innocent and holding predators accountable.
This question is not partisan. It is not rhetorical. It is a moral prerequisite.
We await Dillan Vancil’s response.
A New Voice in the 17th Congressional District
Dillan Vancil, a husband, father, small business owner, and community leader, has entered the Republican primary for Illinois’ 17th Congressional District — a seat that will appear on the ballot for voters across northwest and central Illinois, including Freeport.
Vancil’s campaign is built on the pillars of faith, family, freedom, and fiscal responsibility. He calls for a return to practical leadership, honest governance, and community-driven solutions that strengthen families and small towns across the region.
Vancil’s Vision for Illinois
For Families
As a husband and father, Vancil says his commitment to public service begins with ensuring a better future for his children and all Illinois families.
“Everything I do starts with my family,” he said. “We want our children to inherit opportunity, not obstacles.”
He supports policies that deliver strong schools, parental involvement, and local accountability.
For Small Businesses
What began as a small coffee trailer has grown into six successful shops employing more than 50 team members. Vancil pledges to fight for lower taxes, reduced regulation, and policies that give small business owners the freedom to thrive.
“Small businesses are the backbone of our communities,” he said. “Government should make it easier to grow — not harder.”
For Freedom
A firm believer in limited government and individual liberty, Vancil argues that Washington must live within its means and respect the rights of citizens.
“Government must live within its means — just like every family does,” he said. “It’s time for fiscal discipline, accountability, and a return to common sense.”
For Education
As Vice President of the West Central School Board, Vancil has firsthand experience with the importance of local control and parental rights. He supports reforms that prioritize academic excellence, career readiness, and real-world learning over politics in the classroom.
Leadership Grounded in Experience
Vancil began his career on the railroad and went on to serve as State Legislative Director for SMART-TD, advocating for worker safety and fair treatment.
He also serves on the Eagle View Health System Board, where he’s worked to expand healthcare access for rural families.
“I’m not a career politician,” Vancil said. “I’m a husband, a dad, and a small business owner. I understand the challenges families face because I live them every day.”
Rooted in Rural Illinois
Born and raised in west-central Illinois, Vancil and his wife Alyssa are raising their two sons in the same type of small-town community that shaped his values.
“This is home,” he said. “The people here are honest and hardworking. They deserve a representative who listens, leads with integrity, and never forgets where he came from.”
Looking Ahead
Vancil will face Julie Bickelhaupt in the Republican primary. The winner will move on to the general election in November.
Voters in Freeport and across the 17th District will have the opportunity to choose a leader whose campaign promises real-world experience, family-centered values, and a commitment to common sense.
As the campaign continues, Fighting4Freeport will keep pressing every candidate to answer tough questions and provide clear positions on the issues that affect our communities most — beginning with the safety of our children and the enforcement of justice.
Because in this community, silence is not an option.
