Illinois House race in 97th district

Democrat Jessica Dixon Heitman seeks full term against Republican Gabby Shanahan following ex-Rep. Harry Benton's resignation.

Sexual harassment scandal

Ex-Rep. Harry Benton resigned amid allegations of making lewd comments to three women.

Jessica Dixon Heitman's background

Dixon Heitman, granddaughter of late U.S. Sen. Alan Dixon, worked as statehouse media relations staffer before launching her own PR firm.

Gabby Shanahan's campaign

Shanahan, a court-appointed special advocate for children, argues that 'had something been said three years ago, two more victims or survivors would not have been in that situation'.

“had something been said three years ago, two more victims or survivors would not have been in that situation”

Dixon Heitman's stance

Dixon Heitman says she respects the wishes of the young complainant who 'was very opposed to filing any sort of report'.

“was very opposed to filing any sort of report”

Illinois House Speaker Chris Welch

Welch faces criticism for directing $1.4 million to Benton's 2024 reelection campaign.

Benton's denial

Benton denies wrongdoing and continues as Wheatland Township highway commissioner.

Dixon Heitman's campaign focus

Dixon Heitman focuses on lowering healthcare costs, protecting senior services, expanding good-paying jobs, and retirement security.

Shanahan's campaign focus

Shanahan emphasizes lowering property taxes and gas taxes, noting Illinois has the second highest gas tax in the nation.

Purple district dynamics

Their district is purple with voters supporting Kamala Harris by about 4% over Donald Trump in 2024.

Dixon Heitman's financial advantage

Dixon Heitman entered October with $79,000 in campaign funds and over $200,000 in in-kind contributions.

Shanahan's financial position

Shanahan entered October with $48,000 in campaign funds and $141,000 in in-kind contributions.

Shanahan's stance on abortion

Shanahan declined to share personal stance on abortion rights, stating it's 'already settled in Illinois'.

“already settled in Illinois”

Dixon Heitman's stance on abortion

Dixon Heitman supports a state constitutional amendment codifying abortion rights.