SALEM – Rumors that have been circulating for weeks were confirmed Monday as State Rep. John Cavaletto (R-Salem) announced he would not be seeking re-election next year.
Local news radio says:
The five-term Republican legislator is a retired educator and Illinois High School Association Athletic Directors Hall of Fame member. He was first sworn in as 107th District State Representative in January 2009.
“I have been honored to serve the people of southern Illinois during this trying time in our State’s history,” Cavaletto said. “I’ve spent my time in Springfield fighting for conservative values. I’ve been a consistent supporter of pro-life issues and I’ve worked hard to defend our 2nd Amendment rights. Conservative principles are constantly under attack in Springfield and I am very proud of my record of standing up for southern Illinois values.”
Cavaletto and other downstate Republicans faced criticism last month among his downstate constituents when he voted in favor of the state budget raising state income taxes 32%.
Cavaletto reversed his vote after the governor overrode the budget and constituents expressed their unhappiness with his vote.
Last week, Effingham businessman Brian Milleville announced he was challenging Cavaletto in 2018. Milleville says the Illinois Opportunity Project has voiced their support for his candidacy, although no specific amount of funding from the group was agreed upon.
UPDATE at 3:24 PM: Milleville said in statement issued Monday that he appreciates Rep. Cavaletto's many years in public service and his consistent support for the unborn and the Second Amendment.
"I've never heard anyone say an unkind word about Cavaletto as a person, and every time I have seen John, he always has a smile on his face," Milleville said. "Our campaign will continue our pursuit to bring leadership, fiscal responsibility and principled conservative values to Springfield & the 107th District. Together, we will provide a brighter future for the 107th, Illinois & our future generations."
