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Replacing LaHood in the Illinois Senate

T.J. Carson
Darin LaHood has served as State Senator in the 37th District since 2011.

One political vacancy was filled withthe election of Republican Darin LaHood to Congress  but another one was created.

LaHood served in Illinois’ 37th State Senate District but will resign to become the Congressman for Illinois’ 18th District. The Congressional seat became available after fellow Republican Aaron Schock resigned in March.

Once LaHood resigns his State Senate seat, Republican leaders in the 10 counties included in the 37th Districtwill have 30 days to appoint a replacement. Jan Weber, head of the Henry County Republican Party, said there is already interest in the position. 

“As many as maybe half dozen people have indicated an interest. And there may be more now that this is official,” Weber said.

Weber said a website will be set up for those interested in running. She said anyone interested must be a registered Republican.

Weber said the person chosen will have to cover a large geographic area and be a voice in Springfield for issues important to the district.

“Jobs are fairly lacking in places like Henry and Knox County, and we have to have a balance between public and private partnerships to bring these new jobs to our community,” Weber said.

Weber said she believes a new State Senator will be appointed before a budget is approved in Springfield.