Hastings Drops out of Secretary of State Race
Sen. Michael Hastings (D-Frankfort) says he’s dropping his campaign for Secretary of State. The crowded Democratic primary to replace longtime incumbent Jesse White includes former State Treasurer Alexi Giannoulias and Chicago City Clerk Anna Valencia.
Southwest suburban Sen. Michael Hastings (D-Frankfort) is dropping his bid for Illinois Secretary of State.
Per Rick Pearson in the Chicago Tribune:
In a statement, Hastings, of Frankfort, said the decision to drop his candidacy came after “thoughtful reflection” and with “a heavy heart.” He announced his candidacy March 3 and had the endorsement of the Chicago Regional Council of Carpenters.
Hastings, elected to a southwest suburban state Senate seat in 2012 and a member of Democratic leadership in the chamber, said his district is “where I am needed most” at this point in time.
“We have many important priorities to address … and I am ready and eager to take them on in Springfield,” he said.
Hastings, 39, is a former Army officer who earned a Bronze Star during Operation Iraqi Freedom. Hastings would have been forced to choose between running statewide and running for his Senate seat.
