Senator LaHood, Representative Unes Consider Congressional Vacancy

Written by IllinoisReview.com

Two state senators whose names emerged as possible Republican candidates to succeed resigning U.S. Representative Aaron Schock said they won’t be running in the special election to fill the 18th CD vacancy.

State Senator Bill Brady of Bloomington told WLS Wednesday morning he’s not interested in leaving his duties in Springfield and State Senator Jason Barickman* (R-Bloomington) said he too, would remain in the Illinois State Senate.

“Yesterday, I spoke with many supporters, and discussed this potential opportunity to serve with my family. However, the needs of my young family and the desperate fiscal situation in Illinois state government are paramount,” Barickman said in an announcement Wednesday morning. “These issues demand my full attention and present significant opportunities for me to serve my community and make a difference for our great state. After careful consideration, I have decided not to run for Congress in the 18th Congressional District.”

A third GOP state senator, Darin LaHood of Dunlap, did announce his intentions to run in the special election, the date which has yet to be announced by Governor Rauner. Schock’s resignation is effective March 31.

The list of other possible candidates includes State Representatives Tom Demmer (R-Rochelle) and Michael Unes (R-Pekin), and State Senators John Sullivan (D-Quincy), David Koehler (D-Peoria) and Andy Manar (D-Bunker Hill).

*[Editor’s Note:] Senator Barickman was the lone GOP vote
in favor of redefining marriage in the Illinois Senate 2/14/2013.