South Cook News

Christine Shanahan McGovern, the Republican nominee for the Illinois State House District 36 seat, voiced her opposition to President Joe Biden’s declaration of Transgender Day of Visibility in a social media post on Saturday. She is set to compete against Democrat Rick Ryan in the forthcoming general election.

"As Christians and those of Faith sit in silence because of the spiritual significance of Jesus sacrificing His life in complete humility our President declares Transgender Day on Easter," said Shanahan McGovern, Candidate, according to Facebook. "The Democrats want inclusivity but has thrown a stone at families across America who celebrate the significance of the Resurrection of Christ. They want inclusivity but at the expense of other Americans. I am not ashamed or afraid to say we are in a time now of good vs evil. It should not matter if you have faith or not to see the obvious attack on people of faith."

In a Facebook post, McGovern linked to a CNN story titled "Biden marks International Transgender Day of Visibility by blasting Republicans targeting trans youth." The CNN article reported that President Biden had denounced "acts of violence and discrimination against Americans who identify as trans and nonbinary," specifically focusing on an increasing number of Republican-led bills targeting trans youth.

Screenshot of Christine Shanahan McGovern's March 30 Facebook post | Christine Shanahan McGovern for IL State Representative District 36 Facebook page

President Biden issued a statement on Friday, saying, "Let me be clear: These attacks are un-American and must end. The bullying, discrimination, and political attacks that trans kids face have exacerbated our national mental health crisis. I want every member of the trans community to know that we see you. You’re each made in the image of God, and deserve love, dignity, and respect."

McGovern concluded her March 30 Facebook post by stating, "It is time to vote the person and not the party. It is time to bring back a common sense of life. Please surround yourself with your family and friends this Easter. Remember why we celebrate."

Easter commemorates Jesus’ resurrection following his crucifixion. The date of Easter varies each year between March 22 and April 25. Established in 325 A.D., it falls on the first Sunday after the new full moon on or following the spring equinox according to CatholicStraightAnswers.com. Orthodox Churches may observe Easter one to five weeks later due to their adherence to a different dating system.

McGovern is running as the Republican candidate for the Illinois House of Representatives District 36 after winning an uncontested race in the Republican primary in March. Describing herself as a mother and business owner on her campaign website, she states her commitment to the community where she has resided for nearly 29 years. McGovern is also a small business owner.