Fear and loathing in Funks Grove

Originally published June 20, 2019, at the online magazine SmilePolitely.

For one hour on an unseasonably hot day, I did what many in Illinois’ 13th Congressional District have only heard of in songs and legends: I asked Congressman Rodney Davis policy questions, and he was obligated to respond. The date was Thursday, June 6th. I left about 30 minutes early and drove toward Shirley, Illinois. I am late for most things, but I would not be late for this.

Siblings Jonathan and Katie Funk, along with Katie’s husband Jeff Hake, operate their family…