State Representative Chuck Jefferson surprised constituents and political watchers alike by quietly submitting his resignation. The Rockford Democrat has served in the State House since 2001.
Jefferson submitted a brief resignation letter to the Chief Clerk of the Illinois House Tuesday, with a copy sent along to House Speaker Michael Madigan. He offered no reason for the decision, and it is effective immediately.
Jefferson didn't face opposition in this fall's election. A panel from the Winnebago County Democratic Central Committee will choose a replacement for Jefferson. That person could run for the 67th district seat in November.
Jefferson is expected to talk about his decision to leave the legislature at a news conference Thursday morning in what is now his former legislative office.
