State Senator Chuck Weaver officially took the oath of office Thursday in the Peoria County Courthouse. The businessman and former Peoria City Councilman replaced Darin LaHood, who was elected to Congress last month. Weaver, a Republican, joins the legislative body at a time of intense gridlock with Governor Bruce Rauner. Weaver says one key to getting a budget passed it to work with both political parties:
“I have been on the phone reaching out to people building relationships. I spent my day yesterday in Springfield, meeting my staff and just trying to get prepared for the 20th when I actually go to work.”
Weaver says he plans to run for re-election after filling out the remainder of LaHood’s term. He says he’s also expanding his philanthropic group -- that funds start-up companies and non-profits -- to all 10 counties in his district.