The 38th Illinois Senate District race pits Republican incumbent Sue Rezin against Democratic challenger Christine Benson.
Republican Sue Rezin hails from Morris and has been senator of Illinois' 38th District since 2010, when she replaced Gary Dahl of Granville. For 16 years, Rezin co-owned and managed her family's real estate company. She spent 25 years as a volunteer and wish-granter for the Make-A-Wish Foundation of Northern Illinois. Rezin was a past president of the Nettle Creek School Board, and served on several community boards, such as the Community Foundation of Greater Grundy and the Morris Hospital Foundation. Her campaign platform stresses energy advancement, equitable education funding reform, and statewide economic growth.
Democrat Chris Benson is an Ottawa native with a 35-year career as an educator. She spent 17 years as a teacher and 18 as an administrator, including Superintendent of Ottawa and Streator Elementary Schools. She's also served on several boards of directors. These include educational associations, such as the Illinois Association of Administrators, and community groups such as the Ottawa YMCA. Benson emphasizes her educational expertise and appreciation for the role of unions.
Benson previously ran against Rezin in 2012. She won the Democratic primary but lost to Rezin in the general election.
Endorsements
Sue Rezin has been endorsed by the Chicago Tribune and the National Rifle Association.
Christine Benson has been endorsed by the Illinois Federation of Teachers.
- This report was compiled by WNIJ's Chase Cavanaugh.
