NewsChicago Sun-TimesJuly 3, 2026United States
State Representative Harry Benton Resigns Following Misconduct Allegations
State Representative Harry Benton of Plainfield has resigned from the Illinois House of Representatives following an investigation into unspecified misconduct allegations. His departure triggers a process for local Democratic officials to appoint a replacement for his term and select a new candidate for the November general election ballot.
Read the full story at Chicago Sun-TimesWhy It Matters
Residents of the 97th House District will have their legislative seat vacated and a new representative appointed by party officials, while the November ballot will feature a new Democratic candidate instead of Benton.
Key Facts
- State Representative Harry Benton resigned from office on Friday.
- Legislative Inspector General Mike McCuskey completed an investigation into misconduct allegations against Benton.
- Benton was previously barred from House Democratic caucus meetings in February due to the investigation.
- Benton will remove his name from the November general election ballot.
- Democratic officials from Will and Kendall counties will select a replacement to serve the remainder of Benton's term.
- Democratic officials will also select a replacement candidate for the 97th House District on the November ballot.
- The 97th House District includes parts of Plainfield, Joliet, Oswego, and Bolingbrook.
- The specific details of the misconduct allegations have not been officially released by state officials.
- Benton's resignation makes the public release of the Inspector General's report unlikely.
Who's Mentioned
personMike McCuskey“Legislative Inspector General who investigated the allegations.”personMeg Loughran Cappel“State Senator from Shorewood.”personHarry Benton“State Representative for the 97th District who resigned.”personJB Pritzker“Governor of Illinois.”personEmanuel “Chris” Welch“Illinois House Speaker who called for Benton's resignation.”personGabby Shanahan“Republican nominee for the 97th House District.”location97th House District“The legislative district affected by the resignation.”