Hastings 'Deeply Honored And Humbled' After Winning 19th District Seat

TINLEY PARK, IL — With unofficial vote totals showing that he's secured another term, incumbent Democrat Senator Michael Hastings thanked his supporters early Wednesday, also looking ahead to tackling key issues of his platform.

Hastings went up against newcomer and Republican Samantha Jean Gasca. Vote totals show Hastings led in Cook County throughout the night, with Gasca leading in Will County. Hastings appears to have sealed victory late Tuesday, with 59,900 total votes to Gasca's 47,713.

"Senator Michael E. Hastings expressed deep gratitude today as he celebrated his re-election victory, underscoring his commitment to the people of Illinois and his dedication to addressing the critical issues facing the state," Hastings' office said in a release.

Gasca, however, would not concede early Wednesday, alleging potential voter fraud in Cook County. Unofficial totals show Gasca down by 12,000 in Cook County—a number she disputes.

"... a 12,000-ish vote total doesn’t make sense as both Tinley and Orland are heavily Republican, or have been in the past," Gasca shared on her candidate page. "That means 12,000 votes from that entire area doesn’t reflect the 20 months of going door to door; been in Matteson and Richton Park since March; we also should have done better with the Latino vote, which is about 10,000 alone. ... Something smells fishy. ... Also not saying something is surely wrong, but we should at least do our job and check into it... "

"I am not shy from backing down when I lose, but I want to make sure we actually have lost!"

In his victory statement Hastings, an Iraq War veteran, West Point graduate and longtime public servant, said he will continue representing Illinois with a focus on protecting civil liberties, strengthening educational resources, enhancing infrastructure, and ensuring safe communities, the release reads.

"I am deeply honored and humbled to have the trust of our community and to continue serving as your voice in the Illinois State Senate," Hastings stated. "This victory reflects the dedication and commitment of everyone who stood with us, worked hard, and believed in our shared vision for a brighter future."

The senator thanked his supporters, family and volunteers, acknowledging the many people who contributed to the campaign. Hastings also extended his gratitude to the voters for their confidence and support in his ability to advance their priorities in Springfield.

"This win is a testament to our shared values and our collective commitment to a better Illinois for generations to come," Hastings said. "As we move forward, I pledge to listen and to work tirelessly on behalf of every member of our community. Together, we will continue building an Illinois that fosters opportunity, promotes fairness, and protects the values we all hold dear.”

Hastings said he "looks forward to initiating new legislative efforts that will address pressing community needs, including efforts to alleviate the property tax burden by investing in local education, improving infrastructure for safer neighborhoods, and ensuring that every resident of Illinois has a voice in shaping the future."