"The106th District needs a stronger voice in Springfield, and I can be that voice.  Many of the district residents I have spoken with over the last few months want more vocal representation for our area.  They feel the need for more active and effective representation, and as a Democrat in the Illinois House, I will work with other downstate Democrats to promote the issues that are important us."

The 106th District is currently represented by Keith Sommer (R-Morton) and covers portions of LaSalle, Livingston, McLean, Tazewell, and Woodford Counties.

"More attention needs to be paid to our local schools.  Springfield asks a lot of our schools, but rarely backs up its requests with adequate funding.  Because our schools are the heart of our communities in Central Illinois, we need to ensure they receive the support they deserve.  I will work hard to get our fair share and increase state funding for our schools.”

Mike and his wife, Lisa, were both raised in rural Illinois.  Both of their fathers farmed, and Mike's father was a county sheriff.  Mike teaches Geology at Illinois Valley Community College in Oglesby and serves as President of the Lostant School Board.  Mike and Li sa have two children, Morgan, 6, and Ethan, 3.

Over sixty percent of 106th District's residents live in small towns or unincorporated areas.  "I look forward to meeting as many of the residents of the 106^th District as possible over the coming year.  I think that after they get a chance to meet me and hear my message, they will want to send me to Springfield.  I plan to act in the tradition of downstate Democrats such as Glenn Poshard and Paul Simon by promoting fiscal and personal responsibility."

Mike announced his candidacy Thursday, September 8, 2005, at Lake Eureka Park in Eureka.