(Chicago, IL) — Illinois House Speaker Emanuel “Chris” Welch won’t seek reelection to his leadership post in January. The announcement comes after 26 current and incoming Democratic lawmakers called for new leadership. Welch has faced months of criticism over his handling of sexual harassment allegations against former State Representative Harry Benton, who resigned from his seat in July. The Hillside Democrat was elected speaker in January 2021 after disgraced former Speaker Mike Madigan stepped down. He will remain in the legislature as a state representative.
TR) Colin McIntyre/mt Copyright © 2026 TTWN Media Networks Inc.
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