Dupage Policy Journal

E. Dale Litney thought he had the platform to easily win his race for State Rep. in District 56, but voters were looking for something different.

“My campaign was for a better Illinois, standing up for families, children and our future and my opponent was focused on maintaining the status quo. So, it's all a bit of a shock,” Litney said.

Democrats have controlled the Illinois House since 1997, according to Ballotpedia. Democrats have also controlled the Illinois Senate since 2003.

Many of Illinois' counties are Republican, but election results are dominated by Chicago and its surrounding suburbs, which are extremely Democratic, according to Fox News.

Republicans may need to rethink how they approach Illinois voters in the future to win office.

“Going forward, I think for every candidate, no matter what party or affiliation, will have to try to do what is best for Illinois,” Litney said. Also, stand for making a better future for families, children and small businesses.”

Litney plan to now go over the whole experience of running for public office, as well as imagining what his future could be for Illinois.

“I'm willing to work with anyone who's working for a better Illinois,” Litney said. “I encourage anyone who wants a better Illinois to think about doing something like it, along with doing.”

Democrat Gov. JB Pritzker was re-elected to serve a second term. He said in a tweet, "To the many Illinoisans who exercised their civic duty at the polls or by mail: thank you for believing in our democracy."