POLISCOPE
Back to feed
NewsThe Center Square — IllinoisJuly 2, 2026United States

Illinois House Speaker Calls for Rep. Harry Benton to Resign Following Ethics Investigation

Illinois House Speaker Emanuel 'Chris' Welch has demanded the resignation of Representative Harry Benton following an investigation by the Legislative Inspector General. Governor J.B. Pritzker has expressed support for the Speaker's call, while the seat's status remains uncertain ahead of the November election.

ethicsresignationIllinois House of Representativeselections
Read the full story at The Center Square — Illinois

Why It Matters

The potential resignation or of Rep. Harry Benton would trigger a vacancy in the Illinois House, requiring a replacement to be selected by August 21 to appear on the November ballot.

Key Facts

  • House Speaker Emanuel 'Chris' Welch has called for the immediate resignation of Rep. Harry Benton.
  • The Legislative Inspector General concluded an investigation into Rep. Benton, citing 'clear patterns of conduct' that are 'outrageous, unethical, and unbecoming'.
  • Speaker Welch stated that if Rep. Benton does not resign, the House will initiate expulsion proceedings.
  • Rep. Benton must resign by August 21 for a replacement to be chosen for the November ballot.
  • Rep. Benton was previously stripped of committee assignments and removed from the Democratic caucus in late February following sexual harassment allegations.
  • Gabby Shanahan is the Republican challenger for the district in the upcoming November election.
  • Governor Pritzker stated he supports the Speaker's actions regarding the report.

Who's Mentioned

organizationLegislative Inspector General“Conducted the investigation into Rep. Benton”personJ.B. Pritzker“Governor of Illinois”organizationState Board of Elections“Certifies November ballots”personHarry Benton“State Representative (D-Plainfield)”personGabby Shanahan“Republican challenger for the district”personEmanuel 'Chris' Welch“Illinois House Speaker (D-Hillside)”