Lake County Gazette

State Senator Dan McConchie has announced his endorsement of Joe Salvi as his successor in the Illinois Senate, describing him as "exactly who we need in Springfield." This statement was made by McConchie in a Facebook post dated January 28.

"I want to make clear my full, complete, unequivocal endorsement for Joe Salvi to be my replacement in the Illinois Senate," said McConchie, according to Facebook. "He is exactly who we need in Springfield right now."

McConchie, who declared his retirement effective February 2, shared his reflections on his tenure in a January 27 Facebook post. "Representing the people of the 26th District for the past 8+ years has been an amazing experience. And leaving is bittersweet as I will certainly miss serving the constituents of this area, but I cannot wait for what’s next," he wrote. He also mentioned his new venture, the Accessibility Policy Institute, a non-profit organization focused on public policy to support disabled individuals.

Screenshot of State Sen. Dan McConchie's Jan. 28 Facebook post | State Senator Dan McConchie's Facebook page

According to McConchie's endorsement letter, he emphasized Salvi's loyalty to conservative values and the Republican Party, citing their decade-long friendship. He commended Salvi’s work ethic and dedication to fundraising efforts against Democrats. The letter accompanied McConchie's public endorsement of Salvi on January 28.

Following his resignation from the Illinois State Senate, McConchie will assume the role of CEO at the Accessibility Policy Institute. The organization aims to improve accessibility laws and disability rights at various governmental levels and assist companies in making their products and services more inclusive.

Dan McConchie was elected to represent the 26th Senate District in 2016. A veteran of the Army National Guard, he has two decades of experience in public affairs with national advocacy groups. His educational background includes a Bachelor of Arts in Biblical Studies from Central Bible College and a Master of Arts in Christian Thought with an emphasis on Bioethics from Trinity Evangelical Divinity School.