Lewandowski withdraws from Senate race

By Stuart R. Wahlin

Staff Writer

Dan Lewandowski, chairman of the Winnebago County Democrats, announced Sept. 25 he’d no longer seek the 2010 Democratic nomination for the Illinois Senate’s 34th District seat, held by Republican Dave Syverson since 1992.

Lewandowski challenged the incumbent in 2006, but lost. He announced plans in June to run again, but has since reconsidered.

“At this time,” Lewandowski said in a press release, “my efforts are best placed in continuing to grow the Winnebago County Democratic Party and provide support for our statewide and local Democratic candidates.”

With momentum building for another Democrat, Lewandowski may have saved the party a costly primary in February.

Jennifer Cacciapaglia, a Rockford city attorney since 2000, has been circulating petitions and fund-raising, but has yet to announce her candidacy for the 34th District.

Reportedly, Cacciapaglia has been encouraged by Illinois State Senate President John Cullerton (D-6) to run.

As a result of the 2010 census, which will affect district boundaries, the November 2010 election will be for only a two-year term.

From the September 30 – October 6, 2009 issue.