By Howard Packowitz

BLOOMINGTON – McLean County Circuit Clerk Don Everhart wants another term in office, but is facing opposition from a prominent local Democrat.

Everhart, a Republican, issued a statement saying he’s a candidate for a fourth term as circuit clerk, who is the official record keeper for all judicial matters in the county, and leads a staff of more than 70 people.

Everhart said he’s proud of his office’s ability to provide effective services with a reduced budget every year and within limitations of the county’s case management system. He’s currently on a committee seeking to update that system.

“I’m hopeful the voters will return me the office of the McLean County Circuit Clerk to continue to expand upon our previous successes and to see the fruition of a much sought after CMS – and the improvements it would afford,” Everhart said.

Everhart is chair of the Illinois Association of Court Clerks Technology Committee, is a former McLean County Chief Deputy Recorder, and he used to own a small business that developed computer applications.

Earlier this week, McLean County Democratic Party Chair Erik Rankin entered the race, saying he’s convinced after talking with numerous lawyers, paralegals, and others who do business with the circuit clerk’s office that the department needs new leadership and a different direction.

Rankin is a former McLean County Board member and was vice chair of the county board’s justice committee. Rankin teaches in the Department of Politics and Government at Illinois State University.

Republicans hold all countywide offices, but Democrats have so far produced challengers for circuit clerk, coroner, and auditor for the 2020 election.

Howard Packowitz can be reached at [email protected]