I want to say a special “thank you” to all of the hard-working volunteers who helped me win on Nov. 6. Whether you were college students or seniors, nurses or teachers; whether you were from labor or business, from Carroll, Henry, Whiteside or Rock Island counties – you put your time and energy into helping my campaign, and I will never forget that.

Your votes – and your voices – encourage me as I prepare for a new term in the Illinois State Senate. Your votes – and your voices – encourage me to continue my commitment to effective representation of your views during the debates ahead in Springfield.

We face challenges and opportunities in the new year ahead. Here in the district, we face issues in economic development, education and health care throughout this region.