Link Replacement Vows Not to Run in 2022
New State Senator Adriane Johnson (D-Buffalo Grove), replaces former Sen. Terry Link, who resigned amid tax evasion charges.
From a Lake County Democratic Party News Release:
Adriane Johnson, a park district leader and president of a local chamber of commerce, today was sworn in as the Illinois State Senator for the 30th District. The appointment of Johnson was made by Lake County Democrats Chairperson and former State Representative Lauren Beth Gash and Wheeling Township Democratic Committeeperson, State Representative Mark Walker. According to Illinois law, Gash and Walker were required to appoint a replacement for former State Senator Terry Link within 30 days of his September 12th resignation.
“There were so many amazing and highly-qualified people willing to serve. Nearly fifty people submitted applications. What stood out about Adriane is her service in local government, experience chairing a statewide advocacy organization, business knowledge, and proven commitment to public service. The feedback from people in the 30th District was universally positive and compelling,” said Gash.
“Committeeperson Walker and I sought input from many others, especially those who live in the 30th District. Given the unusual circumstances that created this vacancy, and that petitions to run for this seat in the next election will be available less than a year from now, many preferred appointing someone not planning to run for the seat, then allowing the voters to decide in a primary who should be the Democratic candidate going forward. With Adriane in office, I am confident we found the right person and that the residents of the 30th District will have exceptional representation for the rest of the term.”
Currently, Johnson serves as the Chairman of the Illinois Association of Park Districts’ Board of Trustees and has been a Commissioner on the Buffalo Grove Park District Board since 2011. Johnson is also the President of the Board of Directors for the Buffalo Grove-Lincolnshire Chamber of Commerce. A long-time resident of Buffalo Grove, Johnson is a member of the Village’s Board of Fire & Police Commissioners and the Rotary Club of Buffalo Grove. Johnson has a Bachelor of Arts Degree from Columbia College and a Master of Jurisprudence from Loyola University Chicago School of Law. Johnson has received numerous business and service awards including Buffalo Grove Rotarian of the Year, Board Member and Member of the Year by the Buffalo Grove - Lincolnshire Chamber of Commerce, Rising Star by the Illinois Association of Park Districts, Women in Business Leadership Award – Entrepreneur from the North Shore Women’s Conference, and the Leadership and Service Award from Loyola University Chicago School of Law.
“Serving the public is something I have prioritized for my entire life, and I am eager to continue my public service as a State Senator. I care deeply about racial equality, protecting open spaces and our environment, supporting small business, and ethics reforms. I was so honored this summer to speak at the Black Lives Matter peaceful protest on Juneteenth, and I believe it is critically important that we work toward eradicating systemic racism and restoring the soul of our nation. We are facing so many challenges, and I am ready to join the Governor and my fellow legislators as we work together to strengthen the State of Illinois and the 30th District,” said Johnson. “One of the bedrock principles of our democracy is that our leaders should be chosen by the voters. I am grateful for the opportunity to serve my community as a State Senator until the voters have a chance to make their voices heard.”
The two State Representatives whose districts comprise the 30th Senate District both made comments about the appointment of Senator Johnson:Rep. Rita Mayfield said, " I look forward to working with Adriane on behalf of our mutual constituents, and welcoming her into the Black Caucus."
Rep. Daniel Didech said, "I am thrilled that Adriane Johnson was chosen to serve as my State Senator for the next two years. Adriane's experience in local government, the private sector, and community service makes her a perfect fit for this role. I look forward to serving with Adriane in Springfield -- she will be a great partner in the General Assembly and I am confident she will make a positive impact in this position for the people of Illinois."
The 30th District includes all or part of Waukegan, North Chicago, Park City, Gurnee, Wadsworth, Buffalo Grove, Vernon Hills, Mundelein, Wheeling, Riverwoods, Lincolnshire, Indian Creek, Northbrook, Prairie View, and Mettawa.
Johnson’s current district will be redrawn before the 2022 election, but she intends not to run in two years.