Alderwoman Sellers Faces Crucial Test: Freeport's Future Hangs in the Balance

Freeport, IL - April 2, 2025

For the next month and a half, Alderwoman at Large Joy Sellers may be the most important figure in Freeport. Since taking office in 2023, Sellers, a Democrat, has faced increasing scrutiny from her constituents. Voters who once hoped she would be a voice for the entire community have grown increasingly disillusioned by what they perceive as her repeated alignment with the Republican agenda. The next few weeks could determine whether Sellers will stand firm in her role as a representative for marginalized communities or further cement her controversial position as what some in Freeport’s Black community are calling "Sellout Sellers."

Since her election, Sellers has often sided with Republican interests, much to the dismay of those who entrusted her with representing the diverse people of Freeport. The city, long a battleground for political and ideological divide, is now witnessing a fundamental shift in local governance. The departure of 2nd Ward Alderman James Monroe in May marks a pivotal moment. Monroe, a Republican who has been a staunch advocate for the marginalized in Freeport, will be replaced by Linda Johnson, a new face who many fear will perpetuate the Republican status quo.

Johnson, who has positioned herself as a "Citizens" candidate, has been accused of using a bait-and-switch strategy to secure her seat. Refusing to openly run as a Republican, Johnson’s campaign has been described as an attempt to avoid the controversy that often comes with running as a member of a major party. Critics argue that Johnson will inevitably toe the Republican line, undermining the progress Freeport's more progressive voices have fought for.

In the wake of Monroe's departure, Freeport residents are left wondering where Sellers will stand. Over the past year, Monroe has proven to be an outspoken advocate for the people, especially the marginalized communities in Freeport. His bold stance against Mayor Miller’s tax increase and his willingness to challenge the status quo has earned him the trust of many who feel left behind by the city's leadership. Monroe’s absence leaves a power vacuum that could shift the balance of the City Council toward a Republican-controlled majority, especially if Sellers continues to side with the opposition party.

This brings us to the current state of Freeport's city council. With four meetings left before Monroe's departure, there is a narrow window for action. If Sellers, along with Council members Stacy, Simmons, Sanders, and Monroe, could put aside their differences, they could work together to make a significant impact on the city's future. However, if Sellers continues down the path of appeasing the Republican establishment, the result could be devastating for the residents who have relied on her to protect their interests.

The stakes are high. Following the May election, the city council will likely be split 4-4, with a Republican mayor, leaving Freeport’s political landscape in the hands of those who have long been at odds with the values of the Democratic base. In theory, Sellers will hold the deciding vote, and her actions in the coming weeks will determine whether Freeport will be a city that listens to all its people or one that cedes control to the Republican Party, led by figures like State Senator Andrew Chesney.

What is most alarming is that without Sellers' support for the progressive vision, the Republican-dominated council could push through policies that many fear will harm Freeport’s most vulnerable communities. From tax increases to unnecessary lobbying expenses—such as the $90,000 spent on a lobbyist who has yet to bring any tangible benefits to the city—there is concern that the needs of Freeport’s residents will be ignored.

Critics warn that under Republican control, the city could see further declines in public safety, with an increase in crime as the economic divide deepens. Proponents of Sellers urge her to step up and defend the very people who need her most. The community will be watching closely in the next few weeks to see whether she will rise to the occasion or allow the Republican agenda to move forward unchecked.

Freeport’s future, it seems, hangs in the balance. What happens in the next month could determine the city's trajectory for years to come, and the responsibility now rests on Sellers' shoulders. Will she stand for the people who elected her, or will she capitulate to a political party that has not always had their best interests at heart?

As the clock ticks down to Monroe’s final days in office, Freeport watches, waiting to see whether Sellers will fight for them—or continue to forsake them entirely.