Bloomington man picked to lead McLean County Democrats

Posted on January 14, 2021
Patrick Cortesi of Bloomington. (Photo courtesy: Heart of Illinois ABC)

By Heart of Illinois ABC

BLOOMINGTON – McLean County Democrats’ new leader is taking over as the party aims to end Republican dominance in local politics.

The party’s central committee on Wednesday elected Patrick Cortesi of Bloomington as chair, replacing Nikita Richards, who resigned in November.

Since then, John Whalen has been acting chair and will remain on the party’s executive board as vice chair.

Cortesi has run communications for the party for about the past two years. He mounted an unsuccessful bid to win the chair’s post in 2018. This time, Cortesi ran unopposed.

Cortesi takes over after McLean County Democrats won two county board seats last November, narrowing Republicans’ majority to 11-9.

Republicans hold all countywide offices, but Democrat Joe Biden won McLean County in the 2020 presidential election.

“I am honored to become a part of our rich history and legacy,” said Cortesi.

“We’ve enjoyed many successes in recent years, and I can’t wait to keep that momentum moving forward, together, “ Cortesi also said.

Cortesi’s term expires in April of 2022.

Heart of Illinois ABC can be reached at [email protected]. 

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