Senator Watson to Retire from Leadership

Senator Frank Watson (R-Greenville), who is currently the Minority Leader in the Illinois Senate, issued a statement that he will retire from the leadership position at the end of the year.  Senator Watson suffered a minor stroke recently and while his prognosis is very good, his doctor has advised him to avoid unnecessary stress (like attempting to reason with the Governor, perhaps?)  The members of the Illinois Senate will now be electing two new leaders:  one Republican to replace Frank Watson and one Democrat to replace Emil Jones.  Let's all hope that strong leaders with the best interests of all of the state's citizens at heart will surface and be supported by their respective parties.  IFCA wishes Senator Watson the best; we certainly we had no better voice in leadership for agriculture and downstate interests than Frank Watson.  Best wishes Frank for many more years representing constituents in central and southern Illinois.