Rauner's pick to succeed Murphy is Rolling Meadows mayor

CHICAGO - Sources inside the loop are telling Illinois Review that Governor Rauner's pick to succeed retiring State Senator Matt Murphy is Rolling Meadows' Mayor Tom Rooney. 

The Daily Herald is reporting that State Rep. David Harris dropped out of the six-person competition, leaving Rooney, State Rep. Tom Morrison, Palatine Township Republican Committeeman Aaron Del Mar, Palatine Township Supervisor Sharon Langlotz-Johnson and Arlington Heights Trustee Joe Farwell as those who are still in the running.

Rep. Morrison told Illinois Review Tuesday evening that he recommended support for Rooney.

"I was interested in the Murphy seat, but given the current political landscape, I also want to help ensure conservative representation in both the House and Senate," Morrison said.

The final decision will be made by district GOP committeeman - one of which is Aaron Del Mar, who from Palatine Township, has 41 percent of the weighted vote. Second is Wheeling Township's Ruth O'Connell who preferred Harris, but said she would support Rooney or Morrison.

The deciding vote is likely to be made by Art Niewiardowski of the Elk Grove Township. The other two remaining townships make up two percent or less of the vote.

More to come ...