New House Speaker Elected in Illinois

Emanuel Chris Welch is the new speaker of the Illinois House.  The Hillside Democrat was elected when the 102nd General Assembly convened today.  Welch takes over for Michael Madigan, who has served in that role for all but two years since 1983.  Welch is also the first Black speaker in the state.  Madigan announced Monday he was suspending his bid for another term as Speaker.