Chambana Sun

A boycott campaign targeting businesses that support conservative causes, including figures like President-elect Donald Trump, has sparked strong opposition from local conservatives in the Fox Valley. 

The effort, led by Geneva Alderman Martha Paschke and political operative Paula Merrington, has drawn criticism for its perceived threat to free expression.

State Rep. Brad Halbrook (R-Shelbyville) is a vocal critic of the campaign, calling it a dangerous precedent that threatens both free speech and the diversity of thought that underpins democracy.

Halbrook described the boycott as an attempt to silence political opposition, particularly businesses that have expressed support for conservative causes.

“Boycotting businesses for supporting conservative causes is a dangerous precedent that threatens free speech and free association,” Halbrook told the Chambana Sun. “Businesses should be allowed to contribute to causes they believe in without fear of financial ruin or public backlash. These tactics discourage diversity of thought and punish businesses simply for exercising their rights.” 

The boycott, organized through a Facebook group called Fox Valley Activists, has targeted various local businesses, restaurants, and charities deemed "problematic" for their political affiliations. 

Some businesses were reportedly singled out for displaying Trump signs, hosting GOP events, or aligning with conservative values.

Critics argue that the boycott effort is an attempt to impose ideological conformity, using economic retribution against those who do not share left-wing views.

Halbrook, who has represented Illinois’ 102nd District since 2015, has argued that such efforts harm small businesses and undermine the principles of free speech and free association.

“Consumers and voters should reject cancel culture by supporting businesses targeted for their beliefs,” he said. “Speak out against efforts to silence political opinions and defend the principle that free speech is a cornerstone of democracy, regardless of where you stand politically. When people stand together against these tactics, it sends a strong message that bullying and intimidation have no place in a free society.” 

The Fox Valley boycott campaign has polarized local communities, with many conservative business owners and their supporters defending their right to express political opinions.

Halbrook emphasized that the focus should be on fostering an environment of respect for diverse views, rather than using political affiliation as a weapon.

“Communities and leaders must foster an environment where diverse views are respected,” he said. “Local leaders can set the tone by condemning political retribution and encouraging open dialogue. It’s also important to celebrate businesses and charities for their positive contributions rather than their political stances. By focusing on shared values and common goals, we can build stronger communities that resist division and fear.” 

Halbrook also stressed the importance of holding elected officials accountable for any misuse of power, particularly when they use their political positions to orchestrate or endorse boycotts against political opponents.

“Yes, elected officials should be held accountable if they misuse their political influence to target businesses or individuals,” he said. “While the First Amendment protects free speech, using a public position to incite or endorse boycotts against political opponents crosses the line into unethical behavior. Laws should provide transparency and accountability, ensuring officials cannot abuse their office for political retribution while respecting their constitutional rights.” 

For Halbrook, the fight over the boycott campaign is not just about local businesses or political disagreements—it’s about upholding a culture of freedom in which individuals can express their beliefs without fear of punishment.

“This fight is bigger than any single business or political issue—it’s about preserving a culture of freedom, where people can express their beliefs without fear of punishment,” he said. “As conservatives, we must remain vigilant in defending free speech, supporting those targeted by cancel culture, and working to build a future where respect for differing views is the norm, not the exception. Together, we can push back against these divisive tactics and stand up for what makes America strong.” 

Halbrook is not alone in his criticism.

Dan Proft, host of Chicago's Morning Answer on WIND-AM, compared the campaign to tactics used by authoritarian regimes, further stoking the debate over political polarization in America.

“The local Stasi in west suburban Chicago compiled a target list of local businesses, thanks to Gruppenführer Martha Paschke who is also an elected official in Geneva, to be eliminated with extreme prejudice for the thought and speech crimes of their owners and employees which have also been detailed,” Proft said on X.

Halbrook represents the 102nd House District, which includes parts of Urbana, Danville, Charleston, Paris, Marshall, Newton, Robinson, and Lawrenceville.