UPDATE: West Deerfield Township Supervisor Announces Bid for State Senate

Update 2:30 p.m.:

One day after veteran  announced she wouldn't seek reelection in 2012, a candidate has stepped out to replace the Lake Forest Democrat.

West Deerfield Township Supervisor of Deerfield announced Thursday that she will be a candidate for the Democratic nomination for the 29th District state Senate seat. 

“I’ve long been interested in the community and public service,” Morrison said. “I’m ready to take it to the next level, the 29th state Senate district.”

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Morrison is currently in her fourth term as West Deerfield Township Supervisor where she has served for 14 years. In that position she has created programs to assist the elderly, disabled, mobility-challenged and unemployed. 

“As a state senator I will look for ways to help the people in our community,” Morrison said. “We need to do this by creating jobs and infrastructure.” 

Morrison may soon have company.

Township High School District 113 board member Annette Lidawer of Highland Park is considering a run for the Democratic nomination. Dr. Arie Friedman, a Highland Park pediatrician, is considering an effort for the Republican nod. 

The district currently encompasses all or part of Lake Forest, Lake Bluff, Highwood, Highland Park, Deerfield, Glencoe, Northbrook, Glenview and Des Plaines. The new district will include less of Glencoe, Glenview and Northbrook but take in part of Buffalo Grove.

After being approached by Democratic leaders, Lidawer plans to make a decision within weeks.

 “I’m flattered I was approached and am considering my options. I’m working very hard on school board matters now,” Lidawer said. “Susan (Garrett) has done a wonderful job and this is very fresh.”

Lidawer is an educator and attorney by profession. She spent five years as the district director for former Rep. Stephen J. Solarz (D-NY) before moving to the Chicago area. 

Friedman was one of the Republican primary candidates who lost to Rep. Robert Dold (R-Kenilworth) in the 2010 primary. Before going to medical school, he was a pilot in the United States Navy. 

“I’m not ready to say I’m in the race, but I’m strongly considering it,” Friedman said. “I’ll make a decision by the end of August.” 

Though mentioned as a possible Democratic candidate, will not be running.

“That’s so nice, but no,” Rotering said. “I’m totally dedicated to and enjoying my opportunity to be mayor of Highland Park.”

Earlier:

One day after veteran state Sen. Susan Garrett announced she wouldn't seek reelection in 2012, a candidate has stepped out to replace the Lake Forest Democrat.

Supervisor Julie Morrison announced Thursday that she will seek the Democratic nomination for the Illinois State Senate’s 29th District. Morrison has served as supervisor for four terms.

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Garrett will serve the remainder of her term, which expires in January, 2013. She will retire from public life, according to a news release she sent Wednesday. 

Garrett currently represents all or part of Lake Forest, Lake Bluff, Highwood, Highland Park, Deerfield, Glencoe, Northbrook, Glenview and Des Plaines. The new 29th State Senate District will include less of Glencoe, Glenview and Northbrook, but take in part of Buffalo Grove.

"As an elected local government leader, my commitment has always been to provide opportunities and resources to our communities," Morrison said in her press release. "I want to continue that commitment in the 29th District."

From Morrison's press release:

I will work to serve the district with the same values and high ethical standards that Senator Susan Garrett has displayed.  My job will be to do everything possible to help create employment opportunities in this district and an economic environment that encourages new business. 

At the same time, I will work to protect our natural resources and to keep our lake water clean for all of the communities that rely upon it. I will listen to the concerns and the needs in this district, and then work with all levels of government and their agencies to solve those issues. I will work hard to make government work for the taxpayer.  Every voice wants to be heard, and I pledge to listen and respond with action.