Republican David Peñaherrera is running for Lake County Treasurer in the Nov. 3, 2026, general election against Democrat Sandra Hart.
Peñaherrera, who describes himself as a loan officer with six years of finance experience, said he is running on a platform of lowering taxes, improving affordability and strengthening transparency in the Treasurer's Office. He has been certified for the ballot, according to BallotReady election data.
Lake Forest and Lake Bluff residents vote in countywide races including the treasurer contest. The winner will manage the office responsible for collecting and distributing property taxes paid by homeowners across Lake County.
Candidate information
- Name: David Peñaherrera
- Party: Republican
- Race: Lake County Treasurer
- Election date: Nov. 3, 2026
- Ballot status: Certified for the ballot
- Opponent: Sandra Hart (Democratic)
- Professional background: Loan officer; six years of experience in finance, according to his campaign Facebook page
Experience and public service
Peñaherrera described himself as a young entrepreneur and loan officer in a campaign video posted to his Facebook page. He said he has six years of experience in finance. He did not specify which firms he has worked for or provide details about his entrepreneurial ventures.
Peñaherrera did not list additional public service experience.
On the issues
Fiscal policy and taxes
Peñaherrera said his priorities include lowering taxes, improving affordability in Lake County and promoting clear and responsible fiscal management. He did not detail specific proposals, dollar targets or implementation plans for achieving those goals. He also did not explain which tools available to the treasurer's office he would use to pursue lower taxes.
Government transparency
Peñaherrera said he is dedicated to strengthening transparency and improving how residents interact with the Treasurer's Office. He did not specify which changes he would make to office operations or what new transparency measures he would introduce.
Endorsements
Peñaherrera has been endorsed by the Illinois - Lake County GOP, according to BallotReady profile data.
- Illinois - Lake County GOP
No other endorsements were listed in the candidate's available public materials.
Candidate information in this profile is drawn from the candidate's own public statements and campaign materials, as well as BallotReady election data. Policy positions reflect the candidate's responses and do not represent this outlet's views. The Lake Forest Journal invites all candidates to participate in our election coverage.
