State Rep. Ed Sullivan, R-Mundelein, announced, on Aug. 24, that he would not be seeking re-election in the 2016 election.
On a statement on his website, Sullivan said, "Over the past thirteen years, it has been an honor to represent you through the many significant moments in our State's history. Many decisions have not been easy, particularly with mounting fiscal problems and entrenched corruption. I am stepping away with pride, having fought to represent your interests throughout all of it."
Sullivan was the second House Republican lawmaker to publicly back marriage equality. He told the Chicago Tribune in April, 2013, that his wife's mother was in a same-sex relationship.
"The first reaction from people might be, 'Well he might be voting for that just because of his mother-in-law,'" Sullivan said. "The reality is, because my mother-in-law is gay, I have more of an understanding and familiarity with same-sex couples."
In his Aug. 24 statement, Sullivan attributed his decision to health and family: "When I was diagnosed with Type II Diabetes two years ago, I realized that I needed to make changes in my life so that I can be there for my wife and young children, Trish, Kaileigh, and Finn, as they have been here for me. I look forward to serving many more terms as a husband and father."
Daily Herald reported Sullivan will keep his other post, Fremont Township Assessor, at least until the end of his term. He will back Lake County Board member Nicholas Sauer in the race to fill his House seat. Nonprofit executive Dan McConchie of Hawthorn Woods announced that he too would be vying for the post.