Lake County Gazette

Dan Rogers, chairman of the Shields Township GOP, praised State Sen. Dan McConchie (R-Hawthorn Woods) following his announcement on Jan. 28 that he will retire from the Illinois Senate, effective Feb. 2. 

Rogers described McConchie as a thoughtful and dedicated leader who will be missed both in Springfield and in his district.

“Everything he does, he does carefully and thoughtfully,” Rogers told the Lake County Gazette. “He has been a great senator.”

McConchie’s decision to step down has sparked speculation about the future of the 26th District, as Republicans consider potential candidates to fill his seat. Rogers emphasized that the process will be conducted thoughtfully, with McConchie’s recommendation playing a key role.

The transition will involve various party leaders, but the final decision will rely heavily on McConchie’s input and the recommendations from local GOP officials.

Rogers noted that Lake County GOP Chair Keith Brin will have a 52% weighted vote in choosing McConchie’s replacement.

“(McConchie) said he's going to give a recommendation in the near future as to who he thinks should take the seat,” Rogers said.  

After his retirement, McConchie is planning to launch the Accessibility Policy Institute, a national nonprofit focused on improving disability accessibility.

McConchie, the first paraplegic elected to Illinois state office, aims to bridge the gap between federal protections like the Americans With Disabilities Act and local efforts to assist individuals with developmental disabilities. He plans to advocate for policies that promote accessibility, pointing to Illinois’ progress with the Illinois Environmental Barriers Act and recent efforts to improve housing and transportation.

His new organization will research and develop model legislation to help other states adopt similar measures.

In his official statement, McConchie reflected on how his disability has shaped his career and personal life.

“As a society, we are judged by how we care for the weakest amongst us. When I became disabled 17 years ago, society stepped in with supports and programs and helped ensure that I was not left behind,” McConchie said in a Facebook post. “And I did not just survive, but I have thrived. I have had access to housing, transportation, and been gainfully employed ever since my accident. I have even made my way to public office and am the first paraplegic elected to state-level office in Illinois history.”

McConchie also thanked those who supported him throughout his career.

“A huge thank you to everyone who has helped me over the years serve the state as Senator. I owe an even bigger thanks to my wonderful wife, Milena, and my kids who bore the burden of service even more than me,” he said. “And now, on to what’s next. Let’s go.” 

McConchie, who represents the 26th Senate District, which includes Algonquin, Barrington, Cary, Deer Park, Fox River Grove, Hawthorn Woods, Hoffman Estates, Island Lake, Kildeer, Lake Zurich, Libertyville, Long Grove, Mundelein, and Wauconda, was first elected in 2016. He was re-elected in 2018 and 2022, serving as Senate Minority Leader from 2021 to 2023.