SPRINGFIELD, Ill. — U.S. Rep. Robin Kelly, a graduate of Bradley University, is the new leader of the Illinois Democratic Party.
Kelly, who serves Illinois’ 2nd Congressional District , was not Gov. J-B Pritzker’s choice to replace long-time Democratic Chairman Mike Madigan.
Pritzker, Madigan, Sen. Tammy Duckworth, and former Illinois Senate President John Cullerton all favored Chicago Alderman Michelle Harris to lead the party, according to news partner 25 News.
Kelly won with 52% of the votes from members of the Democratic State Central Committee Thursday night. Harris received 48% of the vote.
Mike Madigan led Illinois’ Democrats for 23 years.
Kelly will serve as Illinois’ Democratic chair through the 2022 election.
