Walker Won't Seek Re-Election In IL Senate

ARLINGTON HEIGHTS, IL — Illinois State Senator Mark Walker (D-Arlington Heights) announced Tuesday he will not seek re-election following the conclusion of his current term. Last year, Walker was appointed to the seat representing the 27th District, filling a vacancy left by former Sen. Ann Gillespie, and then was elected for a two-year term last November.

"I ran for the General Assembly because I want people to be proud of Illinois again," Walker said. "Whether helping to improve Illinois' fiscal position or enacting reforms to help all Illinoisans, my focus has always been on moving our state forward. I'm deeply thankful to the residents of the 27th District for trusting me to represent them in Springfield."

Prior to becoming a state senator, Walker served as a state representative from 2009 to 2011 and 2019 to 2024 for the 53rd District.

As senator for the 27th District, Walker represents a portion of the Northwest suburbs, including Arlington Heights, Mount Prospect, Prospect Heights and Rolling Meadows.

Petition circulation for the 2026 election cycle begins Aug. 5 this year.

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