Rep. Collins Picked to Fill Ill. Senate Vacancy

State Rep. Annazette Collins has been picked to fill an Illinois Senate vacancy created by the resignation of a west Chicago lawmaker.

Collins has served in the House since 2000 and chairs the Public Utilities Committee.

Local Democratic leaders picked her Monday for the seat previously held by Rickey Hendon.

Hendon held the seat for 18 years but resigned suddenly last month.

Another applicant for the vacancy was Scott Lee Cohen, the former candidate for governor and lieutenant governor. His political hopes were dashed by the revelation that he had been accused of domestic violence and steroid abuse.