McHenry Times

Jerry Evans, a Republican candidate for the 11th Congressional District, has announced an endorsement from Roger Claar, the former Mayor of Bolingbrook.

“Major Endorsement Announcement: Roger Claar former Mayor of Bolingbrook endorses Jerry Evans for Congress!” Evans said on Facebook.

Evans took to Facebook shared the endorsement, highlighting Claar’s support for his campaign.

“Unlike our current Democrat Congressman, Jerry knows what it means to build a small business and make payroll. We need the accountability, business experience, and solutions he will bring to Washington. Jerry is the right person for the job, and he has my complete endorsement,” Claar said in the endorsement.

Claar’s endorsement underscores Evans’ appeal to voters seeking a candidate with a strong background in business and a comprehensive understanding of the challenges facing the community.

Claar, who served Bolingbrook for 31 years and is the longest-serving mayor in the town’s history, emphasized Evans’ understanding of small business operations and payroll management, distinguishing him from the current Democrat Congressman. The former mayor’s endorsement adds a significant boost to Evans’ campaign, recognizing the candidate’s commitment to business expertise and practical solutions for the community. Claar, known for his long-standing service and distinguished career, holds a Ph.D. from Kansas State University and has been actively involved in various capacities, including serving as a Village Trustee, Bolingbrook Fire and Police Commissioner and a Board Member of the National League of Cities, according to his website.

Claar was also an at-large delegate to the 2016 Republican National Convention from Illinois, where he was one of 54 delegates bound by state party rules to support Donald Trump.

The 11th Congressional District that Evans is running for covers most parts of McHenry and Kane Counties as well as sections of Boone, Lake, DeKalb, DuPage, Cook, and Will Counties. The district is currently represented by U.S. Representative Bill Foster (D-IL).