Champaign and Vermilion County Democrats selected City of Champaign Township Assessor Paul Faraci, a former Champaign City Council member, to replace the late-Sen. Scott Bennett for a two year term beginning Wednesday.

Faraci, one of the late Senator’s best friends, was recommended by a committee that included State Treasurer Mike Frerichs, who previously held the Senate seat and is also among Faraci’s closest friends.

Faraci is a longtime staffer for the Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO), and served as a senior advisor to Frerichs when he became Treasurer.

The appointment comes after weeks of infighting centering around Rep. Carol Ammons (D-Urbana), who was passed over for the appointment, though she was just elected to her fifth term in the House. Many liberal activists argued the appointment had to go to Ammons, a progressive who has been at the center of numerous controversies over her time in office. Others argued she would have a hard time keeping the seat over a well-funded Republican. Ammons’ House district is safely Democratic, but a Republican represents the other half of the district.

Faraci was one of three candidates endorsed publicly by Bennett’s widow, Stacy. Ammons was not among those recommended.

“This is obviously an incredibly bittersweet time,” Faraci said, fighting back tears. “I want to thank Stacy and her family, and, of course, Scott, for all he did for our communities in the 52nd district.”

Ammons changed her campaign committee from seeking a House seat to seeking a Senate seat last week, indicating Faraci could be up for a vicious primary if he seeks a full term next year.

Ammons has not issued a statement since the appointment Saturday. Faraci was not available for comment Saturday afternoon.

But, after his appointment, Faraci reflected on the significance replacing his friend in the Senate.

“This is an incredible honor and I take it very seriously.”

Patrick Pfingsten

@pfingstenshow

patrick@theillinoize.com