Representative Thaddeus Jones

Thaddeus M. Jones is an American politician and member of the Democratic Party currently serving as the Illinois state representative for the 29th District since 2011. He also serves as the mayor of Calumet City, Illinois, holding both positions simultaneously.

Jones made history in 1997 when he became the first African-American alderman in Calumet City's third ward, a position he held until 2007. He is the founder and Chief Executive Officer of the Jones Foundation, established in 1998 to benefit local children and families through educational opportunities, meal programs, and counseling services for individuals affected by domestic violence and HIV/AIDS.

The 29th District encompasses all or parts of Chicago, Dolton, South Holland, Lansing, Calumet City, Thornton, Glenwood, Sauk Village, Steger, Crete, and Monee.

Education

Jones is a graduate of Bloom Trail High School and holds a bachelor's degree in Criminal Justice from Loyola University. He formerly served as a Student Trustee at South Suburban College and has been a member of the Calumet City Library Board.

Political Experience

Jones first entered state office in 2011 after winning his primary against Sheryl Tillman by 24 points and defeating Green Party candidate Kenny Williams by 66 points in the 2010 Illinois General election.

Throughout his tenure in the Illinois House, Jones has championed education funding, property tax relief for seniors, healthcare expansion, and economic development initiatives. He supported 2013 legislation to expand healthcare coverage to 342,000 low-income Illinois residents and has advocated for infrastructure projects like the Illiana Expressway and the Metra Southeast Service Line to spur economic development in the South Suburban region.

Jones is a proud father of two sons.