ROCK ISLAND, Ill. — Rock Island's Mike Thoms hoped to use his experience as mayor to make a positive impact in a new seat.
Mayor Thoms announced Thursday, Oct. 14 his 2022 candidacy for the Illinois Senate.
"I'm excited to run in this open seat in the 36th District," Thoms said. "We need to work on economic development, public safety and job training. I plan on getting out and listening to the concerns of my constituents and using my business experience, along with my time as mayor, to make a difference."
If elected into the State Senate in 2022, the 62-year-old Rock Island native would be able to stay in his role as mayor.
"It's time for a change," Thoms said.
A senate seat is currently open after Illinois redistricting controversy. State Sen. Neil Anderson, who's held the seat since 2015, was drawn out of the 36th District during the remapping of Illinois legislative districts.
The legislative maps forced Anderson to decide whether to move within the boundaries of the 36th District or run for the seat in his new district against a fellow Republican incumbent.
State Rep. Mike Halpin (D-72nd District), who announced his candidacy for the seat on Sept. 8.