In addition to being a Candidate for State Representative – 69th District, Peter Janko also serves as the Democratic State Central Committeeperson for Illinois’ 11th Congressional District, representing Congressman Bill Foster’s district. First elected in 2018, Peter is serving his thirdterm to continue his work connecting Illinois voters, communities, and state leadership. Unlike appointed political roles, this position is directly elected by Democratic voters, giving Peter a platform to turn activism into tangible impact.
“Being your State Central Committeeperson allows me to build relationships, earn political trust, and deliver results that matter to our communities.
A Lifetime of Civic Engagement
Peter has dedicated decades to community service, historic preservation, and public advocacy. He formerly served on the McHenry County Historic Preservation Commission, helping to identify, preserve, and restore sites of historical significance.
He has partnered with leading preservation organizations, including:
- Association for Preservation Technology International (APTI)
- Landmarks Illinois
- Frank Lloyd Wright Preservation Trust
Peter also formerly served on the Board of Directors of the Preservation Trades Network (PTN), a national nonprofit that supports skilled traditional trades and ensures the conservation of historic structures for future generations.
“Preserving our history strengthens our communities and educates future generations.”
The Role of the State Central Committeeperson
Many voters are unfamiliar with the Democratic State Central Committee, but Peter has leveraged this platform to influence policy at the highest levels. The Committee is the governing body of the Democratic Party of Illinois, responsible for setting rules, guiding policy, supporting candidates, and strengthening local organizations.
Political Capital in Action
By building personal relationships with legislators, Peter has developed political capital—the credibility, trust, and influence necessary to move ideas from concept to action. This has allowed him to advocate effectively for key initiatives, even in challenging political environments.
Key Accomplishments
Restoring Passenger Rail Service to Rockford
Service had been discontinued for over 30 years. Decades of restoration efforts stalled, including a near-success halted by Governor Rauner. Peter’s advocacy, including his work to extend Metra commuter service from Elburn to DeKalb and NIU, caught Amtrak’s attention. In late 2018, he was invited to help secure funding in the state budget, and the project was successfully included.
Repeal of the Grocery Tax
During his campaign for State Representative in the 69th District, Peter made repealing the grocery tax on food and medicine his top priority. While running in a heavily Republican district (R+23), he overperformed expectations, showing bipartisan support for the issue. Ultimately, the grocery tax repeal became law, proving you don’t have to hold office to influence legislation.
Building a Path Toward Better Healthcare in Illinois
In 2026, Peter launched the Illinois Care Initiative, a grassroots effort dedicated to building a better healthcare system for Illinois families. Founded on May 5, 2026, the initiative focuses on listening to patients, healthcare workers, and communities while developing practical solutions to improve affordability, access, and quality of care.
The Illinois Care Initiative reflects Peter’s belief that meaningful reform begins by understanding the challenges people face and bringing communities together to create solutions.
“Healthcare reform designed by the people of Illinois, for the people of Illinois.“
Early accomplishments include:
- Publishing two comprehensive healthcare policy white papers examining challenges and opportunities for reform
- Launching a statewide postcard campaign to bring citizens’ voices directly to Illinois leadership
- Hosting the first Illinois Care community healthcare forum to hear firsthand experiences from residents
- Creating a community healthcare survey to gather input from patients, families, and healthcare stakeholders
Through the Illinois Care Initiative, Peter is working to ensure that healthcare reform is not created behind closed doors, but through the experiences and voices of the people it is meant to serve.
Please visit our heathcare4illinois website https://healthcare4illinois.com/ to learn more.
Why Peter Runs
Peter Janko believes in service that delivers real results. Whether restoring rail service, repealing unfair taxes, preserving historic landmarks, or protecting families online, he combines experience, relationships, and persistence to get things done.
He lives in Marengo, Illinois, with his family and continues to be actively engaged in civic initiatives, public policy, and community advocacy.
“Dedication, persistence, and strategic advocacy can create meaningful change for communities across Illinois.”