State Representative Jason Barickman was appointed to his 105th Legislative District statehouse seat in January, but he may not be there for long. The 36-year-old Republican has announced his candidacy for the 2012 race of the newly redrawn 53rd State Senate district (which does not include Champaign County). A 2005 graduate of the University of Illinois College of Law, he is a founding partner of the law office of Bartell, Barickman & Powell, LLP, which concentrates on Business and Real Estate law. Barickman has served as Chairman of the Champaign County Republican Party since 2006. Before that, he chaired Champaign County County’s Young Republicans. Jason and wife Kristin, who is also an attorney, live in Champaign. They were married in 2010 and welcomed their first child, August Michael Barickman, in May.
See why we think Jason is a Chambana Dad to Know.
Q: How did you spend Father’s Day?
My Mom’s birthday was Friday, and Father’s Day was Sunday. As a result, we spent Saturday at our family farm in Livingston County with my family. On Sunday, we went to church, then to one of our favorite breakfast spots – Original House of Pancakes. Later, we grilled brats for dinner, and I made a phone call to my Dad.
Q: Welcome to fatherhood — what has surprised you about being a dad so far?
I always heard what an amazing experience children would be. However, there’s actually no way to adequately describe the strong bond between a father and his child. I pull the 2 a.m. shift (when Augie wakes at night for a feeding), and he and I often have some of our best bonding moments in the quiet hours of the night together.
Q: What did you learn from your dad that you hope to pass down to your son?
My dad taught me the value of hard work and leading a life with integrity. He also taught me how to be a good husband, which I believe is critical to being a good dad.
Q: Despite being around campaigns and politics for years, this is your first time in public office. How have you adjusted to your new role, and what do you think you have accomplished so far?
I’ve been frustrated by the dismal financial status of our state government and strongly believe that we need effective leaders in Springfield. I truly believe the public wants each party to reach across the aisle to work towards common sense solutions to the problems facing our state. One of our biggest accomplishments this year was working in a bipartisan manner to pass a budget that limits state spending to the amount of revenue the state realistically expects to bring in.
Q: You’ve had quite a whirlwind since 2011 began – new job, new baby, already planning another campaign. What is your favorite stress management technique?
My wife, Kristin, is my best friend. Most of my stress is relieved by having someone to talk with. She is extremely supportive and acts as my in-house counselor! Also, I like to run almost every day and clear my brain.
Q: What activities are you most looking forward to doing with your son?
I love to fish and have great memories of fishing with my dad. I can’t wait to pass that tradition down to Augie.
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