Champaign County GOP Chair Among Those Seeking Rutherford’s Senate Seat

Republican Senator Dan Rutherford's successor could be Champaign County's GOP chair.

Now that the 53rd district Senator from Pontiac has been elected Illinois' next Treasurer, Republican Party chairs from the 10 counties making up that district must caucus to select someone to fill out the Senate term's final 2 years.

Champaign County GOP leader and Champaign Attorney Jason Barickman grew up in Livingston County, where his family has farmed for more than a century. The Illinois State University graduate touted his years of experience working on political campaigns.

"I worked for Governor Edgar. I've worked with Congressman Ewing and long been involved in the political process," he explained. "This of course is putting myself out there in a public realm, and I think at the end of the day I would connect very well with voters."

Barickman also said his character makes him a good candidate.

"My hope is at the end of the day is that they look at me and say this is a person who's got some energy, is a fresh face," Barickman said. "He seems to have the work ethic and personal ethics of someone who would roll up his sleeves, and work hard for us in Springfield. My hope would be to be victorious through that process."

The GOP caucus to select someone to fill the senate seat will occur in the next few weeks. The Republican chair of McLean County, John Parrott, said they will eventually narrow down the list of candidates from about 10 to four or five.

Other candidates include former Pontiac Mayor Scott McCoy, former Saunemin Mayor Mike Stocklin, and State Representative Keith Sommer of Morton.

Parrott said the caucus will conduct a weighted vote based on population. The four largest counties in the district in order are Tazewell, McLean, Champaign, and Livingston. The Republican chairs will start accepting resumes after their caucus meeting.