Kevin Schmidt

Kevin Schmidt is an American politician and chiropractor currently serving as a member of the Illinois State House of Representatives, representing the 114th District. A member of the Republican Party, Schmidt was elected to his position in 2022. His district encompasses a diverse range of communities in the Metro East region, including parts of Cahokia Heights, Dupo, Millstadt, Smithton, Freeburg, New Athens, Fayetteville, Mascoutah, Lebanon, and O'Fallon. Schmidt's professional background as a chiropractor informs his legislative priorities, particularly in health care and community welfare.

Early life and career

Kevin Schmidt was born and raised in Belleville, Illinois. His early life in this region likely influenced his understanding of the local community and its needs. Schmidt pursued higher education at Southern Illinois University Edwardsville, where he gained foundational knowledge that would later support his career in health care. He furthered his education at Logan College, a well-regarded institution specializing in chiropractic studies. After completing his education, Schmidt established his chiropractic practice in 2006, marking the beginning of his professional career. His work as a chiropractor allowed him to engage directly with the community, offering health services and building relationships with residents.

Schmidt's decision to enter politics can be seen as a natural extension of his commitment to community service. His background in health care likely provided him with insights into the challenges faced by individuals and families in his district, particularly regarding access to health services and the overall well-being of constituents. As a chiropractor, he would have developed an understanding of the importance of health care policy, which would later influence his legislative priorities.

Legislative service

Kevin Schmidt's political career began in earnest when he first ran for office in 2020, seeking election in the 116th District. In that election, he participated in a three-person Republican primary but finished in second place, receiving approximately 31.3% of the vote. The primary was ultimately won by David Friess, who went on to secure victory in the general election with a substantial margin. Despite this initial setback, Schmidt remained committed to his political aspirations.

Following redistricting in 2022, Schmidt shifted his focus to the 114th District. In this race, he successfully defeated Kevin Dawson in the Republican primary, garnering approximately 61.2% of the votes cast. This victory positioned him to compete against incumbent Democrat LaToya Greenwood in the general election. Schmidt emerged victorious in this contest, winning approximately 52.8% of the vote. His campaign emphasized several key issues, including criticism of Democratic tax and climate policies, opposition to COVID-19 lockdown measures, and a focus on job creation and crime reduction.

Schmidt officially took office on January 11, 2023, marking the beginning of his term as a state representative. Since assuming this role, he has been involved in various legislative activities and has participated in multiple committees. His committee assignments include the Appropriations - Health and Human Services Committee, Appropriations - General Service Committee, Ethics & Elections Committee, Health Care Availability & Access Committee, and Public Health Committee. These roles allow him to engage with critical issues affecting his constituents and contribute to shaping policy in Illinois.

In 2025, Schmidt was involved in a notable legislative debate regarding a bill aimed at banning what was termed "discriminatory disability mascots." The proposed legislation would have specifically impacted Freeburg High School within his district. Schmidt opposed the bill, arguing that it did not take into account the community's history and cultural context. This instance highlights the complexities of local governance and the challenges legislators face in balancing community values with broader legislative initiatives.

Policy focus and district

As a representative of the 114th District, Schmidt's policy focus reflects both his professional background and the needs of his constituents. His experience as a chiropractor informs his commitment to health care issues, particularly in relation to accessibility and availability of services. Schmidt's involvement in the Health Care Availability & Access Committee underscores his dedication to addressing health-related concerns within his district. He is likely to advocate for policies that enhance health care services, improve patient access, and support the overall health of the community.

In addition to health care, Schmidt's campaign priorities included economic issues, particularly job creation. His emphasis on jobs reflects a broader concern for the economic well-being of residents in his district. By advocating for policies that foster economic growth, he aims to address unemployment and underemployment, which are critical issues for many families in the region.

Crime reduction is another significant focus for Schmidt. His campaign highlighted concerns about safety and security within the community, indicating a commitment to addressing crime-related issues. This focus aligns with the interests of many constituents who prioritize public safety and seek effective solutions to reduce crime rates.

Schmidt's district, the 114th, is characterized by a diverse array of communities, each with its unique challenges and opportunities. The district includes urban areas, suburban neighborhoods, and rural communities, all of which contribute to the complexity of representing such a varied constituency. Schmidt's ability to navigate these diverse interests is crucial for effective representation in the Illinois State House.

In summary, Kevin Schmidt's career as a state legislator is marked by his commitment to health care, economic development, and public safety. His background as a chiropractor provides him with a unique perspective on health-related issues, while his focus on job creation and crime reduction reflects the priorities of his constituents. As he continues to serve in the Illinois State House, Schmidt's legislative actions will likely be shaped by his experiences and the needs of the 114th District. His ongoing involvement in various committees further positions him to influence policy and advocate for the interests of the residents he represents.