Working for Illinois Caucus

The drama surrounding the recent Facebook post by the La Salle County Clerk has taken on a new level of seriousness, as one county board member has brought up the “R” word.

About two weeks ago, County Clerk Jen Ebner posted a meme of a stick figure decorated as the American flag, kicking in the stomach a stick figure decorated as the Pride rainbow flag. Under the image is the text, “It’s finally July.” The image is an apparent slap at June’s designation as Pride Month. Ebner posted it to her personal Facebook page. She since has defended her right to do so.

Since then, Ebner’s post – and her refusal to acknowledge its anti-LGBTQ sentiment – has earned the condemnation of the La Salle County Democratic Party and her own La Salle County Republican Party. Democratic State Representative Lance Yednock has brought the matter to the attention of the Illinois Attorney General. Board Members Brian Dose and Douglas Trager, both Democrats of Ottawa, have also weighed in against the clerk and her post. Most recently, Trager brought up the subject at a committee meeting Tuesday.

Republican County Board Chairman Don Jensen himself drew fire at a full board meeting just last week as he spoke on the matter. Jensen quoted scripture throughout his remarks, urging forgiveness for the clerk. It should be noted that Ebner has not asked for forgiveness.