South Cook News

Herb Hebein (R) has conceded his race for the 35th House District seat.

Despite the defeat, Hebein acknowledge the positive side of being recognized, and expressed his gratitude to the people who extended him help in his fight.

"Many thanks to my family, friends, volunteers and all who supported us by knocking on doors and handing out literature and signs," Hebein posted on Facebook. "They were running scared. It’s hard to believe the Dems took so many offices. It’s going to be dark times for our city and state. Hold fast to your faith. Our Lord will carry us no matter the evil and persecution we encounter. It is all in his hands. He has a plan. God Bless you all!!!"

Election results provided by the Associated Press showed incumbent Democrat Rep. Frances Hurley defeated Hebein with 24,943 votes over Hebein's 15,806 votes with 97% of the vote counted as of this writing, the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel reported. Hurley won 61.2% of the vote while Hebein won 38.8% in a district that spans Beverly and the South suburbs.

According to his campaign website, Hebein is a lifelong resident of Chicago and a retired Chicago Police officer. He lives in Mount Greenwood and has been active in St. Christina Church for 33 years. On his website, he campaigned on servant leadership, putting the community first, and backing first responders and the military. He supported lowering taxes and cutting spending, public safety, protecting the 1st and 2nd amendments, protecting the lives of the unborn, parental rights, funding the police, and freedom. He also wants to bring small businesses and jobs back to Illinois.

On the heels of Republican losses across the state, House Minority Leader Jim Durkin (R-Burr Ridge) announced he would not seek another term as GOP leader: "It has been the honor of a lifetime to serve as leader of the House Republican caucus, but it’s time for the Illinois Republican Party to rebuild with new leaders who can bring independents back to the party that are needed to bring change to the state," Durkin said, the Chicago Tribune reported. 

Republicans went into the election with high hopes but only 78 of the 118 House seats were challenged, and in the Senate only 25 of 59 seats were up for grabs. The party made modest gains in the State Senate, but it was still a disappointing race for them as the Democrats still have a supermajority in Springfield.

This was the first general election without former House Speaker Michael Madigan. On election night, incumbent House Speaker Chris Welch (D-Westchester) said, "We know that when we fight, we win — and tonight, that couldn’t be more true. House Democrats have fought tirelessly for working families and have secured important legislative wins to protect reproductive rights, rebuild our infrastructure, fund critical public safety initiatives, and so much more." 

Senate President Don Harmon (D-Oak Park) said, "The people have spoken. Now it’s time to get to work governing."