BREAKING: Rep. Ann Williams running for Speaker

January 6, 2021

Good morning.

Some breaking news to share as the Speaker’s race is getting a lot more crowded.

ANN THAT MAKES 4

Rep. Ann Williams (D-Chicago) announced this morning she’s going to seek the House Speaker’s gavel in the latest challenge to embattled Speaker Michael Madigan’s grip on power.

Williams becomes the fourth Democrat to jump in the race, including Rep. Stephanie Kifowit (D-Oswego), Madigan, and the likely candidacy of Rep. Kathleen Willis (D-Addison).

If one of the three women is elected to replace Madigan, it would be the first time Illinois has a female Speaker. Madigan, who is under a microscope from federal prosecutors, is attempting to keep his grip on the gavel he’s held all but two years since 1983.

We’ll continue to follow this story and keep you updated on www.theillinoize.com and on Twitter.