Friends:

Illinois has always been more important to me than Washington. Recently, it has become clear that I can make the most positive change for my constituents by staying in the Senate.

I am keenly sensitive to the balance between labor and business that is vital to our state's economic health. It's obvious that key decisions on this front will be made in the weeks, months and years ahead at the Statehouse and I want to be part of those decisions to make sure the interests of Central Illinois are represented.

Caterpillar, the men and women of the UAW and all of the other businesses and working families throughout this region need a pragmatic, experienced voice advocating for them in Springfield. I have a strong record of accomplishment from my time in the Illinois Senate and look forward to the opportunity to build on it as we rebuild our local and state economy.

I am proud of the race we ran. I will eternally be grateful to everyone who has donated, volunteered, or given me encouragement over the past several months, and I look forward to the future.