Peoria Standard

Regan Deering emerged victorious in the GOP primary elections as the chosen State Representative for District 88, succeeding State Rep. Dan Caulkins (R-Macon).

In a statement to the Macon Reporter, Deering expressed her gratitude for the opportunity to serve her constituents, emphasizing the honor she feels in representing Southern Illinois conservatives.

Acknowledging the support she received from friends, supporters, and a significant endorsement from former President Donald J. Trump, Deering reiterated her commitment to addressing key issues affecting the district.

“I am humbled by the trust placed in me, and I pledge to offer integrity, courage, and an unwaveringcommitment to our shared values,"  Deering told Macon Reporter in a statement.

"This is just the beginning. I stepped into public service because I fear for my three kids’ future in Illinois. I look forward to taking my solution-oriented conservative message to General Election voters in the 88th district and throughout the region."

"High taxes, brutal inflation, failing schools, and government mismanagement impact all families, regardless of party. Together, wewill make Illinois a beacon of hope, freedom, and opportunity. It's time for itto be morning again in Illinois."

With Deering's win, the stage is set for her to embark on her legislative journey, advocating for the interests of her constituents and striving to enact positive change in Central Illinois.

“Many thanks to everyone who had a part in my primary win! Let’s keep active to grow the party and turn out the vote for great candidates in November,” Deering said on Facebook.

She accompanied the post with a video.

"Whether you voted for me or not, my commitment is to continue to advocate for families and good policy in Springfield. I will push back against what is showing up in our legislation that is not best for the great people of Central Illinois,” she said in the video.

Deering emphasized her commitment to conservative values and vowed to address pressing issues such as high taxes, inflation, border policy, and education reform.

With a focus on solution-oriented problem-solving, Deering looks forward to making a positive impact as she heads to Springfield to represent her constituents.

In response to her victory, Deering's opponent, Chuck Erickson, congratulated her and praised her campaign efforts. Despite falling short in the election, Erickson highlighted his commitment to fiscal responsibility and thanked his supporters for their contributions to his campaign.

“Congratulations to Regan Deering on winning the primary,” Erickson said on Facebook. “She won and that is where we leave it. I will say the people that know me in McLean County Board District 10 and live in the 88th district voted for me 57.6% to 42.4%, 10 precincts overall. They know of my commitment to having never voted for a tax rate increase and being an advocate for the taxpayer. I want to thank all who put up a sign, liked a post, and who volunteered. We ended up short but we put up a great fight with the resources available to us."

Meanwhile, outgoing State Rep. Caulkins expressed his gratitude to the voters of the 88th district for choosing Deering as his successor, confident in her ability to uphold conservative values and effectively represent the district in Springfield.

“Thank you to the voters of the 88th district for your continued support in choosing Regan Deering to be your next representative. I know she will be a strong voice for our conservative values in Springfield. Congratulations, Regan!” Caulkins said on Facebook.