Brady Seat Could Be Filled This Weekend
The Illinois Senate floor.
Since former Senate Republican Leader Bill Brady (R-Bloomington) resigned his seat at the end of December, many aspiring politicos have weighed seeking the appointment for the final two years of Brady’s term in the 44th District.
Republican chairmen are scheduled to meet Saturday to interview nine candidates to replace the longtime McLean County lawmaker and three-time candidate for Governor.
GOP Chairmen in the district confirm to the Illinoize the nine candidates come from Logan, McLean, and Tazewell County.
Tazewell County Board Chairman Dave Zimmerman and former Bloomington-Normal Economic Development Council CEO Kyle Ham, who previously served as Chief of Staff to then-Treasurer Dan Rutherford, previously confirmed they are seeking the appointment.
Lincoln City Administrator Beth Kavelman told The Illinoize Thursday she plans to seek the appointment. As did Bill Graff, who served as Director of the Illinois Farm Service Agency until the end of the Trump administration this week. Graff held the same position under President George W. Bush.
The Logan County party chairman also confirmed former Logan County Clerk Sally Turner and Lincoln Ward 3 Alderman Kevin Bateman are in the running. Tazewell County Board member Russ Crawford, as well as Logan Warrick and Tim Taylor will also seek the appointment.
Logan County Board Chair Emily Davenport, who works in the Senate non-partisan staff office, says she will not seek the appointment.
48th DISTRICT
We’re told the field is still being set to replace recently resigned Sen. Andy Manar (D-Bunker HIll). Applications are due Monday. Springfield Alderwoman and Sangamon County Democrat chair Doris Turner says she hasn’t made up her mind if she will seek the seat.
7th DISTRICT
Sen. Heather Steans (D-Chicago) will resign from the Senate on January 31. It appears Rep. Kelly Cassidy (D-Chicago) has the inside track for that appointment.