SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (CAPITOL CITY NOW) – Nikki Budzinski is looking for another term as Illinois’ 13th District Congresswoman in next week’s election.

The Democrat tells the WTAX Morning Newswatch it’s been difficult working with Republicans in Congress, but that doesn’t mean she isn’t trying.

“It’s been, honestly, kind of disappointing.  In the House, I have definitely tried on a number of different issues to work across the aisle, and just gotten a ‘no,'” said Budzinski (D-Springfield).  “One of the things I think voters are going to hold Republicans accountable to in the House and the Senate this election is the fact that very few, if any, of them have really stood up to the Trump administration when it matters most.”

Budzinski says she did get Republican sponsors on two veterans-related bills that ended up passing unanimously.

Among the areas she’s concerned about is affordability, and believes opponent, Champaign County Board member Jeff Wilson, isn’t willing to take a stand on that.

“I understand, uniquely, that costs are going up,” said Budzinski.  “What is happening with the Trump administration is their direct connect to these rising costs — whether it’s the tariffs that they’ve imposed on people that are leading to higher grocery prices, or the war in Iran that this administration has gotten us into that has led to increased prices at the gas pump.  My opponent refuses to stand up to the Trump administration on any of these issues.”

In regards to affordability, according to Wilson’s campaign website, “Families in Illinois’ 13th District are being hit hard by rising costs. Jeff will focus on real solutions – like expanding Midwest energy to lower utility bills, strengthening local farms and supply chains to cut food prices, and cracking down on onerous regulation. Together, we will fight for middle-class families, small businesses, and farmers – because working families in Central and Southern Illinois deserve real affordability and a fair shot at the future.”

Wilson’s campaign accepted WTAX and CapitolCityNow’s invitation for an interview.  But, the campaign has since been unable to be contacted for a specific date and time.