About Ricky Rivard

Our communities deserve a leader who will fight for working families and deliver real results in Springfield. As your State Representative, I’ll listen to every voice in our district—because government should work for the people, not the powerful. I’m a proud Democrat who believes in the power of government to create opportunity, lift up our communities, and level the playing field for all.

I’ll champion affordable healthcare for every family, so no one has to choose between paying rent and seeing a doctor. I’ll push for affordable daycare to help parents get back to work while their children are safe and learning. And I’ll fight for attainable housing—because everyone deserves a fair shot at owning a home and building generational wealth.

We need good-paying jobs, strong public schools, and policies that put workers first. And we must protect fundamental rights—from reproductive freedom to common-sense gun safety laws—while ensuring our democracy works for everyone, not just the wealthy and well-connected.

I’ll lead with transparency, holding regular town halls and putting your concerns front and center in Springfield. Together, we can build an Illinois where hard work pays off, families thrive, and the next generation has even greater opportunities than ours.

Let’s make progress happen—for all of us.

As a lifelong resident raising my family here, I am deeply invested in the future of our community. With a Master’s in Political Science from Northern Illinois University and a Bachelor’s in Political Science and History, I’ve spent years studying how government can empower people—and now I’m ready to put that knowledge into action.

My career reflects a commitment to service and education:

  • As a real estate agent, I help families find their place in our vibrant community—giving me firsthand insight into the challenges our neighbors face and the opportunities ahead.

  • As an adjunct professor at Elmhurst University, I teach the next generation about civic engagement and the importance of effective governance.

  • With 20+ years in the service industry, I understand the value of hard work, listening to diverse perspectives, and solving problems with pragmatism and empathy.

I believe government should be a force for good—providing safety, opportunity, and support without overreach. When families succeed, businesses expand, and innovation is encouraged, we all benefit. That’s the Illinois we can build together.