WTAX News has confirmed that State Rep. Tony McCombie (R-Savanna) and State Sen. John Curran (R-Downers Grove) have enough votes to win Tuesday’s leadership elections.
House Minority Leader Jim Durkin (R-Western Springs) has announced his intention not to seek a new term as leader. Senate Minority Leader Dan McConchie (R-Hawthorne Woods) is apparently not leaving leadership under his own power.
A letter signed by a majority of the members of the Senate Republicans for the upcoming General Assembly voiced support for a “forward-thinking leader,” that being Curran. The letter goes on to say those who signed consider McConchie to continue to be “a valued member” of the caucus.
Curran is the first senator listed among the letter’s signers. McConchie, who has not returned a request for comment, did not sign the letter. The thirteen signers also include State Sen. Steve McClure (R-Springfield).
As for McCombie, she will become the first woman to lead the House Republican caucus, though Christine Radogno has led the Senate Republican caucus.
Lawmakers return to Springfield for the veto session, which begins Tuesday.