Newly-elected Senator, Tom Rooney (R-Rolling Meadows), was sworn in on September 29, affirming his position in the Illinois General Assembly as the State Senator for the 27^th District. 

“Today is a truly humbling experience and I am honored to have been chosen to represent the hardworking people of the 27^th District,” said Senator Rooney. “Coming from a background in civic service at the local level, I am looking forward to the challenge and responsibility of serving my constituents at the state level, ensuring that their voices are heard and their needs are represented.”

Senator Rooney has been a long-time resident and active leader within his community of Rolling Meadows, serving first as alderman before being elected as the mayor of Rolling Meadows in 2011. The Senator will step down as mayor later next month.

“Serving the people of the 27^th District is a privilege and a responsibility I do not take lightly,” said Rooney. “I know there is challenging road ahead to make Illinois the strong and prosperous state I know it can be. However, I am ready to do the work. More importantly, I am ready to make a difference.”

Circuit Judge Martin Kelley administered the oath to Senator Rooney, who formally accepted his office surrounded by family, friends and other public officials, including Senate Republican Leader Christine Radogno, Representative Tom Morrison and Representative David Harris. He replaces former State Senator Matt Murphy (R-Palatine).

The new addition to the General Assembly has both a military and education background, having served his country as an intelligence specialist in the United States Marine Corps Reserves and working as an economics and history teacher at West Leyden High School for the past 20 years.

“From the local level, I’ve watched for years as Illinois has been headed down a one-way path of irresponsible spending and unresponsive government,” said Rooney. “However, I know that Illinois has the potential for a brighter future, and I am ready to do the work to make that bright future more than just wishful thinking. I’m ready to make that Illinois’ reality.”

The ceremony took place at the City Hall of Rolling Meadows, and Senator Rooney was joined by his wife, Susan, and their four sons, Chris, Brian, Adam and Christopher.