Northbrook Rep. Elaine Nekritz Stepping Down

NORTHBROOK, IL — Saying she wishes to create an opportunity for a new leader to tackle the state's "tremendous problems", eight-term State Rep. Elaine Nekritz (D-Northbrook) will not seek re-election in 2018.

Currently the assistant majority leader of the Illinois House, Nekritz sent a letter Friday explaining her decision to local north suburban township Democratic committeemen who would be responsible for appointing her replacement.

Since 2003, Nekritz has represented the 57th District, including includes Northbrook, Buffalo Grove, Wheeling, Arlington Heights, Palatine and Mount Prospect. (Sign up for our free daily newsletters and breaking news alerts for the Northbrook Patch.)

Nekritz did not give an exact date of her departure from the House, but she told the Daily Herald that "it's time to move on," even though she "doesn't have anything else lined up, which is kind of scary."

According to the Daily Herald, Nekritz is among the most powerful suburban lawmakers within the inner circle of House Speaker Michael Madigan.

Nekritz has publicly supported the candidacy of state Sen. Daniel Biss (D-Evanston), and she told the paper she can imagine becoming more involved in the campaign after she leaves the General Assembly.

In her letter announcing her decision not to seek re-election, Nekritz said she wanted to give "ample time" to Democratic party leaders to find someone to replace her.

Nekritz has nine committee assignments, including appropriations, elections, judiciary, personnel & pensions and campaign finance. Before becoming a state representative, Nekritz was the chair of the Village of Northbrook's Community Relations Commission and worked as a real estate lawyer.

» Read her complete letter below:

Dear Sirs,

It has been an honor to serve as State Representative from the 57th District since 2003. I have worked diligently from the day I was elected to represent the good people of this district and this state with humility and passion. But after careful thought, it is time for me to step back and create an opportunity for a new leader who can take on our state’s tremendous problems with the same mindset.

I am writing to inform you that I will not be seeking reelection to the position in the 2018 election cycle and intend to leave at the appropriate time before the end of my term. I know how important it is for this seat to continue to be represented by someone who shares our core goals and values, so I wanted to make sure you and the other members of our local Democratic Party had ample time to find the right person who will best represent our area.

Thank you again for your support in my elections and service in Springfield, and your good work for our district. I trust you will find the right candidate who will help move our state forward.

Regards,
Elaine Nekritz

» via the Capital Fax

Top photo: Elaine Nekritz | Official portrait