By Illinois Public Radio/KWMU
Springfield, IL – Illinois Senate Republicans have picked a veteran lawmaker from near St. Louis to lead them.
Frank Watson will succeed the retiring Pate Philip. Watson is from Greenville and becomes the only legislative leader outside of the Chicago area. He says Republicans need to rebuild and his position will be an important one. As a leader... Watson can help set legislative priorities.... make committee assignments and control large sums of money.
A 57-year old pharmacist from Greenville, Watson has been a lawmaker since 1979. He defeated Senator Kirk Dillard from Hinsdale for the job in a closed door selection meeting last night in Springfield.