Rep. Jim Sacia

by Rep. Jim Sacia

As my career as a State Representative comes to an end, you can imagine there is much reflection. I have loved this opportunity to serve you, the constituents of the 89th District, these past eleven years. Yes it’s bittersweet. There are disappointments, there are great joys.

I make no apologies for stands I’ve taken on issues. Each one was based on the conviction that I believed was the best decision for the majority of you. Some of you will read this and say I never represented you or your convictions. Rest assured I tried to understand your point of view. I take great pride in listening to all sides of an issue.

Yes, this article will open some old wounds. I will always believe that my decisions were based on carefully thought out facts.

Rep. Brian Stewart (Freeport)

Family, friends and supporters gathered at the Stephenson County Courthouse on Friday as Freeport native Brian Stewart was sworn into office as State Representative for the 89th District.

“I want thank my family, friends and especially State Representative Jim Sacia for supporting me in this endeavor,” said Rep. Stewart. “I am truly honored at this opportunity and am confident that my background and past experiences will serve me well as I represent the people of the 89th District in Springfield.”

Illinois legislators are scheduled to return to Springfield October 22nd for fall Veto Session. Rep. Stewart stated the pension crisis is the top issue driving the state’s budget woes and is committed towards working in a bipartisan manner to resolve the issue.

Durkin Takes Reins as New House Republican Leader

·         Representative Jim Durkin (R-Western Springs) takes over as Leader of the House Republican Caucus.  The transition took place on Monday, September 23.  Representative Tom Cross (R-Plainfield), the leader of the House Republicans for ten years (2003-2013), moved on to turn his attention to other opportunities.  While Cross plans to serve out his legislative term, Durkin becomes the leader of the forty-seven House Republican members.

Jim Durkin, a practicing attorney, began his House service in 1995.  He has served repeatedly on the House’s Judiciary Committees, specializing in issues of criminal law and civil misconduct.  He was a leader in the bipartisan investigatory committee that gathered evidence and made a recommendation that led to the impeachment and removal from office of former Governor Rod Blagojevich in 2008-2009.  In 2012-2013, Durkin led the General Assembly’s efforts to investigate and help regain financial stability for the troubled “College Illinois” savings program.