Chambana Sun

Joshua Loyd of Carbondale has filed with the Federal Election Commission to run as a Republican candidate in Illinois' 13th U.S. Congressional District.

Loyd, a former member of the Army National Guard, is set to face off against freshman incumbent Nikki Budzinski unless other GOP candidates file to run.

“As a Veteran, Joshua Loyd is a proud supporter of our men and women in uniform,” his campaign said in a March Facebook post. “He believes our military is a fundamental component of our democracy and freedom that we enjoy every single day. With the United States nearing a war that could be a near peer competition, Joshua Loyd believes we must maintain a strong and capable military. Further, Joshua Loyd will ensure that military spending happens appropriately and that proper military standards and training processes occur without mismanagement.”

Loyd has contributed personal funds to his campaign, according to The News-Gazette. But Budzinski holds a significant financial advantage with a substantial campaign fund. The National Republican Congressional Committee has not targeted Budzinski, indicating that Loyd may not receive financial support from the committee.

A native of Illinois, Loyd holds his home state close to his heart and has witnessed the political challenges it faces, his campaign website said. Growing up, he enjoyed the simple pleasures of rural life in Illinois and made a personal vow to resist the immoral and corrupt influences of politics if given the chance. Coming from a military family, Loyd developed a deep appreciation for the sacrifices made by service members and served as a soldier himself. He also actively participated in political campaigns and served as a precinct committeeman in southern Illinois. Loyd is committed to community service, has received recognition for his volunteer work, and enjoys outdoor activities in his free time. He is married to his high school sweetheart, Suzanna, and both are graduates of the United States Military Academy at West Point.

Loyd has connections to Charlie Kirk and Turning Point USA, and he thanked both in a March Twitter post.

“Thanks @charliekirk11 for the great photo,” Loyd said in the tweet. “I hope you don't mind I am using it for more than just my resume. @TPUSA.”

Loyd's website also stated that the “use of his military rank, job titles, and photographs in uniform does not imply endorsement by the Department of the Army, The United States Military Academy, or the Department of Defense.”