Western Illinois – At least three people have announced their candidacy to replace Lane Evans as the Democratic nominee for Congress in Illinois' 17th District. The latest person to throw his hat into the ring is State Representative Mike Boland (D-East Moline). Boland says he's progressive on social issues and conservative on fiscal matters. Boland says it's important for the Democratic nominee to hit the ground running and thinks he's prepared to do that. Evans announced late last month that his battle with Parkinson's disease will prevent him from seeking a 13th term. He's endorsed longtime aide Phil Hare as a replacement. The third candidate is high school teacher Rob Mellon, who lives in Quincy. Whoever Democrats choose will face Republican Andrea Zinga in the November election.
Congressional Hopefuls Line Up for Nomination
