John Elleson

John Elleson is a longtime pastor whose public biography lists his wife, Sue, and seven children.¹ He was born in Monmouth, Illinois.¹ He describes four decades of ministry as accompanying families through their lives, from their earliest days to their final ones.² Asked about his heroes in 2018, he pointed to people persevering through addiction, illness and financial trouble.³ In the same questionnaire, his advice to readers emphasized humility, forgiveness and honesty.³

Elleson trained in pastoral theology at Christian Life College in Mount Prospect and took supplementary courses in Deerfield.³ His early work included teaching and pastoral duties at Calvary Temple in Naperville, followed by pastoral service at Calvary Chapel.¹ He headed Teen Challenge Hawaii from 1998 to 2002, and his published career lists Lakewood Chapel service beginning in 2002.¹

Elleson has never held government office, but his earlier congressional campaigns include the 2018 and 2022 races.¹.² He is the Republican candidate in the 9th District.² His campaign emphasizes mental health and addiction services, arguing that people needing treatment should receive help rather than be jailed.²

On immigration, Elleson supports legislation negotiated by both parties that would grant some undocumented residents amnesty while requiring others to return to their home countries.² He favors help with health insurance costs and exploring health savings accounts for younger people.² He also supports a balanced budget, greater contributions from higher earners and AI regulation to protect children and the public.²