U.S. Senator Mark Kirk isn't lending his support to anyone yet in the race to replace former U.S. Rep. Aaron Schock in the 18th Illinois Congressional District.
Kirk says he's letting his fellow Republicans choose their candidate for a special election. He declined to endorse the current front-runner, state Sen. Darin LaHood.
"I would say Darin has the right family name for Peoria leadership because his dad is so well-loved," he said, referring to long-time Congressman Ray LaHood.
Darin LaHood declared his candidacy for the 18th district shortly after Schock announced his resignation from Congress last month amid questions of campaign spending.
The state has to hold a special election for the 18th Congressional district since Schock resigned less than three months into his latest term. State and federal officials yesterday proposed election dates, which are awaiting a judge's approval.
The U.S. Justice Department says it worked with Illinois officials to set a July 7 primary and a Sept. 10 general election. Illinois must comply with federal law regarding overseas ballots.
Another possible contender has given his support to the younger LaHood.
Ed Brady said he'd spent three weeks traveling the district, and found a sincere interest from voters in a contested primary. But, he says, given the election's short time span, it's best for voters that the Republican party stay united.
To that end, Brady has endorsed GOP front runner, State Sen. Darin LaHood, who's from near Peoria.
Ed Brady -- brother to former GOP gubernatorial candidate and current State Sen. Bill Brady -- said he'd spent three weeks traveling the district, and found a sincere interest from voters in a contested primary. But, he says, given the election's short time span, it's best for voters that the Republican party stay united.
To that end, Brady has endorsed LaHood, who's from near Peoria.
- Illinois Public Radio StateHouse Bureau Chief Amanda Vinicky and WILL's Hannah Meisel contributed to this report.
