State Sen. Bill Brady on Friday was unanimously elected as Illinois' new Senate Republican Leader in the wake of Christine Radogno's abrupt resignation the day before.
Brady, who has run for Illinois govenor three times in the past, will remain in the role for the rest of the 100th General Assembly.
“It is an honor to be chosen to lead the Senate Republican Caucus,” Brady said in a statement. “I thank them for their faith in me. I also appreciate my constituents in the 44th District for giving me the privilege to represent them in the State Capitol and the opportunity to serve as Leader.
Brady, Republican from Bloomington, was nominated by Sen. Dale Righter and Sen. Karen McConnaughay, according to the statement.
“The issues facing Illinois are daunting, but our caucus remains committed to working together to face those challenges,” Brady said.
Radogno announced her resignation Thursday afternoon, saying she had done “everything I can do to resolve the state’s budget crisis.”
The 41st District representative said in a news release she was proud of her accomplishments during the time she led the Illinois Senate Republicans and thankful for her colleagues in both parties, staff and family.
“I have particularly enjoyed my friendship and working relationship with Senate President John Cullerton that began the day we were chosen as Leaders of our respective caucuses,” Radogno said.
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She will continue her efforts to work on the budget during the state’s special session as a June 30 deadline looms, she says.
“Though I leave political office with a sense of sadness and some disappointment, I leave with no regrets,” she said. “I did my best – that’s all I could do. It has been a privilege to serve.”
Gov. Bruce Rauner released a statement following Radogno's announcement later in the afternoon.
“It's been an honor and a privilege to work alongside Leader Radogno these last two years as we continue to try to improve the lives of the people of Illinois," Rauner siad. "She is a consummate professional and public servant, who has championed fiscal responsibility and human services that help our most vulnerable residents. While she will be sorely missed, Diana and I wish her all the best in her future endeavors.”
Radogno’s resignation is effective July 1.
