As Election Day on November 5th draws near, voters in Sangamon County are gearing up for several competitive races. Among the most closely watched is the race for County Recorder, where Republican Frank Lesko, Springfield City Clerk, is challenging incumbent Democrat Josh Langfelder.
Lesko has proposed merging the County Recorder’s office with the County Clerk’s office. He argues that the consolidation could save taxpayers as much as $400,000 annually and streamline operations. Over 90% of Illinois Counties have eliminated the office. However, Langfelder, who has held the position since 2008 and is part of a well-known local political dynasty, with his father, Ossie Langfelder, and brother, Jim Langfelder, both having served as mayors of Springfield, opposes the proposal, calling it a political gimmick and expressing doubts about the actual cost savings.
Another high-profile race is in the 95th District for Illinois State Representative, where Republican incumbent Mike Coffey faces Chatham Trustee Kristen Chairo. Coffey is campaigning on fiscal responsibility and economic growth, highlighting his business background and community leadership. Chairo, meanwhile, is running on a platform that emphasizes women’s rights, including strong support for protecting access to abortion care.
In the 96th District, Democratic State Representative Sue Scherer of Decatur is seeking re-election against Republican challenger Lisa Smith. Scherer is touting her record on education and healthcare legislation, while Smith is campaigning on government accountability and promoting economic development initiatives.
Several Sangamon County Board races are also gaining attention. Incumbent Republicans are running on their proven track record of fiscal responsibility, noting that the county’s tax rate is lower today than it was 25 years ago while still expanding and improving county services. Democratic challengers are focusing their campaigns on increasing transparency across various county government departments.
County Board races include:
District 9: Republican Tom Madonia Jr. (incumbent) Vs Democrat Dana Storger
District 12: Democrat Marc Ayers (incumbent) vs, Republican Colleen Lucas Cavanagh
District 13: Republican Brad Miller (incumbent)
District 15: Republican Tim Krell (incumbent)
District 16: Republican Greg Stumpf (incumbent) vs. Democrat Garret Selinger
District 17: Republican Annette Fulgenzi (incumbent)
District 24: Republican Andy Van Meter (incumbent) vs. Democrat Maureen Duffy Bommarito
District 25: Republican Jennifer Deaner (incumbent) vs. Democrat Jennifer Merritt
District 26: Republican Justin Davsko (incumbent) vs. Democrat Rick Thompson
District 27: Republican Abe Forsyth (incumbent) vs. Democrat Kamilah Renee Webb
Sangamon County Clerk Don Gray is urging voters to take advantage of early voting and vote-by-mail options, assuring residents that both methods are secure and convenient. “Voting early or by mail allows citizens to participate in the democratic process on their own schedule. Both options are safe, reliable, and easy to use,” Gray said.
Early voting is currently taking place at the Sangamon County Complex, 200 S. Ninth Street, Springfield, from Monday to Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., with extended hours on weekends and leading up to Election Day.
Saturday, October 26th: 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Sunday, October 27th: 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Monday, October 28th – Friday, November 1st: 8:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m.
Saturday, November 2nd: 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Sunday, November 3rd: 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Monday, November 4th: 8:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m.
For more information on polling locations, hours, or to view a complete list of candidates, visit the Sangamon County Clerk’s website.