House Republican Leader Jim Durkin (R-Western Springs) is pleased to welcome Brian Stewart to the Illinois House of Representatives.

Stewart was sworn in as the new Republican State Representative of the 89^th House District on Friday.  He is filling the vacancy left by Jim Sacia. 

“Jim Sacia is a good friend and colleague. He is highly respected in Springfield, and will be missed,” said Durkin.  “However, I have no doubt that Brian will do a great job of representing his constituents from northwestern Illinois and I want to welcome him to the Illinois House of Representatives and the House Republican Caucus.”  

Stewart previously served as a Stephenson County Sheriff’s Deputy and eventually joined a major case squad serving the nine northwestern most counties in Illinois before going into business.  Today he successfully employs over 300 people and manages over 20 businesses, the majority of which are centered in his hometown of Freeport. 

According to Durkin, Stewart’s law enforcement and business experience will be very beneficial to the residents of Illinois.   

“Illinois’ unemployment rate is currently 9.2 percent – the 2^nd worst in the country - and is the biggest issue facing our state.  As a successful businessman, Brian knows first-hand the impact Illinois’ anti job policies are having on employers, and what the state should be doing to help business to thrive,” said Durkin.  “I intend to tap into his expertise as we move forward in formulating our jobs creation and public safety agendas.”    

Stewart was officially sworn in as the new State Representative of the 89^th District on Friday.