Peoria Standard

The Illinois Republican Party Central Committee named Don Tracy as its new chairman, replacing Tim Schneider.

Tracy, the first chairman from outside Chicago since 1988, will be filling the last two years of Schneider’s term.

U.S. Rep. Darin LaHood (R-IL-18) is enthusiastic to work with Tracy and applauds him for his skills.

“Congratulations to Don Tracy on his selection today as our new ILGOP chairman!” LaHood wrote on Twitter. “Don brings a tremendous skill set, passion, and a thoughtful conservative approach to the job. I wish him much success and look forward to working with him to win in 2022! Full speed ahead.”

Chairman Don Tracy is thankful for the unanimous support from the committee.

“I cannot thank everyone enough for the kind words,’ Tracy said in a statement. “In my time being involved in winning some tough and important races for Republicans, a united team with everyone rowing in the same direction was absolutely crucial. So, it’s heartening to see my message of being a Chairman for all Republicans resonate so quickly. The opportunities before us in 2022 will require us standing together.”

Mark Shaw, the Lake County Republican Party chairman and president of the Republican County Chairmen's Association of Illinois, and Kendall County Board Chairman Scott Gryder were the other candidates who ran for the chairmanship.