SPRINGFIELD – The Illinois Senate selected Don Harmon to be its next President Sunday afternoon. State Senator Cristina Castro (D-Elgin), who joined her caucus colleagues in electing the new president, expressed optimism of the senate’s future under the new leadership.

“We had a very productive 2019, so I’m excited to see what 2020 has in store under President Harmon,” Castro said. “I’ve known President Harmon for a while, and I know the kind of person he is. I am beyond confident that he’ll fight hard for changes that the people of Illinois need, such as protecting working class families.”

Castro also voiced her gratitude toward former President John J. Cullerton, who resigned from his position Sunday after announcing his intention to do so in November.

“I’m grateful to President Cullerton for leading us through what was the most successful year since I’ve been in the Senate,” Castro said. “I will of course miss his leadership, but I am optimistic about the direction that President Harmon will take our caucus.”

President Harmon became the 39^th President in Senate history.