Illinois Attorney General Kwame Raoul Tests Positive For COVID-19

CHICAGO — Attorney General Kwame Raoul announced Tuesday he has tested positive for the coronavirus. The Chicago Democrat and former state senator becomes the first statewide elected official to contract COVID-19, the respiratory disease caused by the virus. Raoul said in a statement he had been experiencing only mild symptoms and would work from home and remain under isolation.

"After experiencing minor symptoms over the weekend, I consulted with my health care provider using telehealth services. Upon the advice of my doctor, I was tested yesterday and informed today that I have tested positive for COVID-19," Raoul said.

Contact tracing has begun to notify people who may have been exposed to the virus after recently coming in contact with the attorney general.

"My symptoms continue to be mild, and I am in regular contact with my staff in order to continue to manage the operations of my office," he added. "As I join the countless Illinois residents working from home, the programs and services provided by the Attorney General's office will continue uninterrupted."

Raoul, 55, was appointed in 2004 to succeed former President Barack Obama representing the Hyde Park neighborhood in the Illinois Senate. In the March 2018 Democratic primary, he emerged atop a field of eight candidates, narrowly defeating former Gov. Pat Quinn before winning by 12 points in November over Republican attorney general candidate Erika Harold.

Raoul urged the public to continue following guidance from public health officials as the number of confirmed active COVID-19 cases in the state continues to decrease. Keep staying six feet apart, wear a face mask when around other people and practice good hand hygiene, he said.

"I am fortunate to be otherwise healthy and am following recommendations to protect those around me," he said. "I encourage all Illinois residents to take precautions to protect themselves and vulnerable residents from contracting COVID-19."