By David Slavik, The Chicago Times
January 09, 2023
SPRINGFIELD, IL – Republican House Leader State Representative Jim Durkin announced he will retire on Tuesday. In November, Durkin had announced that he would resign his leadership position within the Republican caucus. Durkin blamed former President Donald Trump for Republican defeats in the recent election. Critics of Durkin pointed out that Illinois Republican wins have been shrinking well before Trump entered the picture.
“As long as we continue to say that we are the party of Trump and that we have to abide by the party principles in the platform, 100% we’re gonna continue down this path of losing,” Durkin said in a statement. “Whoever succeeds me, we need to do more to not take these strident positions on issues related to firearms, to issues of reproductive health, issues relating to the gay and lesbian community. There are many people who feel very strong about those issues who would vote for Republicans.”
Durkin’s successor to represent the 82nd district will be chosen by Republican officials.
The Chicago Times 