A second democrat has entered the race for state representative from the Illinois Quad Cities. Today Rock Island attorney Mike Halpin announced he's a candidate in the 72nd district.
It's now represented by Milan democrat Pat Verschoore who announced last month he will retire at the end of his current term next year (2016). Already in the race is Verschoore's nephew, Jeff Jacobs, an attorney in Moline.
Originally from New York state, Halpin was hired by Quad Cities congressman Lane Evans in 2002 to work as his district scheduler and aide. After earning a law degree, he went to work in 2010 for the Rock Island law firm of McCarthy, Callas, and Feeney, where he focuses on labor and municipal law.
He also serves on the board of Bridging the Gap: Stand Down for Homeless Veterans.
Also running for the 72nd District seat in the General Assembly is republican Brandi McGuire from Milan.