Righter Leaving Office
State Senator Dale Righter, republican of Mattoon announced Friday he will not be seeking re-election to the 55th District seat he has held since 2003.
“Words can not adequately describe the immeasurable blessing that serving the citizens of east-central and southeastern Illinois has always been,” said Righter. “Each day, whether in the Capitol or back home in the district, is a privilege. But after much thought and prayer, I’ve decided it’s time for this chapter of my public service to conclude.”
Righter served five years in the Illinois House before being elected to the Senate in 2002. He intends to serve out the remainder of his term, which expires in January, 2021.
“My heartfelt thanks to the voters who have placed their collective trust in me and the values I have brought to the capital each legislative session. I will always cherish the opportunity with which I have been graced,” concluded Righter.
The day after making his announcement to leave the senate, Righter along with the majority of Republicans voted no on the Fiscal Year 2020 operating budget, which included a 2.4 percent cost of living increase for members of the General Assembly.
“I voted no on an operating budget that relies on new taxes and provides for pay raises for state lawmakers. It could not be more unethical for legislators to demand even more from the pocketbooks or our taxpayers just to turn around and put it in their pockets.
The bill passed the senate on a partisan vote 40 to 19.
