Honored To Be Re-Elected

I am truly honored to have been re-elected by the good people of the 106th district to represent them in Springfield.  My 71% vote total was very gratifying.  Please know that I will continue to work hard for your family and all of central Illinois.
Madigan One Seat Short
Speaker Michael Madigan needed to take away four Republican seats last Tuesday to secure a super-majority for Democrats in the Illinois House.  He got three!  There are now 70 Democrats and 48 Republicans.  It will be a challenging but interesting session ahead.
Watson Out/ Who’s In?
Due to suffering a recent stroke, Senate Republican Leader Frank Watson is stepping down from his leadership post.  Two GOP Senators are openly vying for the job; Kirk Dillard of Hinsdale and Christine Radogno of Lemont.  My hopes are for a central Illinoisan.  With Dan Rutherford and Bill Brady likely to seek statewide office in 2010, the well liked Dale Risinger of Peoria may yet emerge.  He’d be an outstanding choice!
Democrat Musical Chairs
With Baraack Obama moving soon to the White House, his possible successors as US Senator are putting on their track shoes, hoping to be appointed for the remaining two years of his term.  If it’s a sitting Congressman, then there’d be a special election, as is the case with Rahm Emanuel’s seat as he joins Obama on Pennsylvania Avenue.  There must be three dozen ambitious Democrats trying to move up the food chain as a result.  And as one moves up a chair, there’s another to be filled.  And so on, and so on.  Let the music begin!
November/ December Chat Time
After the legislature’s Veto Session next week, things quiet down officially until January.  That gives me the time to meet and chat with anyone who wants to for the rest of 2008.  Something on your mind?  Just give my office a call at 309/263-9242 to set up an appointment.  You can come my way, or I’ll come to see you!
Campaign/ TV Ads
My congratulations to those who ran positive campaigns this year.  They’re the true leaders and winners.  I’m glad I can turn on the TV now without seeing mud being thrown – but alas, I must admit I was not ready for the Christmas barrage that began on November 5th, either!
Left-Handers
Some of us know that Presidents Bill Clinton and George H.W. Bush, President-Elect Barack Obama, and Senator John McCain are all lefties.  Ronald Reagan was, I understand, somewhat ambidextrous.  My good friend Rep. David Leitch eats and writes with his left hand.  And I had not noticed until recently that Aaron Schock is a southpaw.  Huh?  Maybe my outgoing, left-handed, eight year old daughter has a bright political future, too!?
November/ National Adoption Month
This holiday season I ask families to consider giving of the greatest of gifts by opening their homes and hearts to a child without a family of its own.  You would be blessed beyond belief.  Later this month as you sit down for Thanksgiving dinner, count your blessings, look around the table, and imagine if you can, setting a place for a newly adopted family member next year.  If someone in your family would like to explore adoption, give me a call.  As the Republican Spokesman on the House Adoption Reform Committee and as an adoptive father, I’d love to talk with you.  There are so many kids waiting for a loving Mom and Dad, and Grandpa and Grandma!
Thank a Veteran
Today we celebrate Veterans Day and honor all those who have worn the uniform.  Take the opportunity today to thank a veteran.  My thanks to all of you who have proudly and valiantly served our country.
Washington Mayor’s Prayer Breakfast
Before heading to Springfield on November 20, I’ll be joining hundreds of the faithful who will gather at Five Points for Mayor Gary Manier’s Prayer Breakfast.  The event is sponsored by the Washington Chamber of Commerce.  See you there at 6:30 AM!
Your Comments . . . .
Your thoughts and comments on topics of the day are always welcome and greatly appreciated.  It’s an honor and a privilege to represent the good people of my district in Springfield.

Rep. Keith P. Sommer, 106th District, Illinois House of Representatives; email sommer@mtco.com