About Brad
Brad Beekman is a retired Illinois State Police officer, a family man, and a lifelong resident of west-central Illinois. He's running for State Senate to be a voice for law enforcement, support rural communities, and restore real accountability in Springfield.
Brad believes in a more prosperous, vibrant, and healthy Illinois. Through his years of service and dedication to our state, Brad—like many of us—has seen the steep decline in Illinois. Our education system, tax burden, and crumbling infrastructure all point to one undeniable truth: our government no longer works for the people.
During his career, Brad rose to the rank of Master Sergeant and was selected to serve as a Detail Leader for the Governor's security team—an elite assignment comparable to the Secret Service at the state level. In this role, he was trusted with the safety of Illinois' highest elected official, willing to risk his life in the line of duty.
Brad understands sacrifice. He understands service. And he loves Illinois. He has felt the call to public service once again—not to protect the Governor, but to represent we the people and stand for common sense and our shared values. Brad is ready to run. And through a life of service and dedication, he has shown something that everyone who meets him comes to believe:
He can win.
Taxes and utilities are continually becoming more burdensome on the people of west-central Illinois. Brad has felt the impact on himself and his community. He knows Illinoisans need relief.
In the years since his retirement as a Trooper, Brad has found work at a small local bank and has become familiar with the impact of bad government policy on families, farms, and small businesses.
Brad Beekman understands that Illinois' future depends on the strength of its small businesses. In preparation for seeking this office, Brad has made it a priority to learn more about the diverse range of businesses across the 36th Senate District. From family-owned farms and manufacturers to retailers and service providers, he has seen firsthand the creativity and resilience that define our region.
Yet in every corner of the district, he has also heard the same concerns—frustration with overregulation, burdensome taxes, and a political class that is out of touch with what businesses actually need to thrive.
Brad is ready to change that. He's committed to working hand-in-hand with local business owners and community leaders to fight for pro-growth policies, restore accountability in Springfield, and be a true advocate for the people who drive our local economy.
Education is personal for Brad Beekman. His wife, Bambi, and daughter Macey are dedicated public school teachers. His mother-in-law is a retired educator. And today, Brad proudly serves on his local school board—working directly with parents, students, and faculty to strengthen our schools.
Brad believes in real accountability, honest conversations, and high standards in the classroom. He's ready to get to work in Springfield on behalf of parents, to support and empower teachers, and to champion a no-nonsense vision for quality education that puts students first.
News, events, and what's next on the road to November 3.