Morris' David Welter named state representative for 75th district

MORRIS – Republican David Welter, of Morris, has been chosen unanimously by the 75th Legislative District Appointment Committee to fill the term of former State Rep. John Anthony.

The committee, comprised of Grundy County Republican Chairman Aren Hansen, Will County Republican Chairwoman Kathy Havel, Kendall County Republican Chairman James Marter and LaSalle County Republican Chairman Don Jensen, interviewed eight applicants over the course of a seven-hour meeting Saturday in Morris.

“This was a challenging decision for the committee because of the depth of talent of all the applicants,” Hansen said in news release announcing the selection. “While we are all going to miss John Anthony, we have no doubt that David Welter will continue his efforts in Springfield and represent the constituents of the 75th district with integrity and zeal.”

Welter said he was honored to be chosen to represent the district.

"I want to thank the chairmen for a thorough and open process," Welter said. "The real work starts now. I look forward to representing all of the 75th district and I can't wait to get out and meet the people of the district."

Welter, who has served on the Grundy County Board since age 19, was appointed Grundy County chairman Dec. 1, 2014, and currently holds the position.

“I am extremely impressed by the level of experience, professionalism and accomplishments that Mr. Welter has packed into his six years in public service," Marter said in the news release. "David’s passion, youth and energy will be an asset to the residents of the 75th district.”

Anthony, R-Joliet, resigned June 17 and was named executive assistant to the director of the Illinois Department of Corrections on June 20, according to the department website.

Welter will fill the 75th district house seat until the current term ends in January. He will also appear on the November general election ballot as the Republican candidate for the position in a race Anthony was originally slotted to run against Democrat Martha Shugart.

Anthony was appointed to be the 75th district representative in August 2013 when previous state Rep. Pam Roth, R-Morris, stepped down when she moved to Texas. In November 2014, Anthony won the seat when he faced off against Shugart.

The date for Welter's official swearing in will be released in the coming days and his contact information will be made available after the swearing in.