Vying to replace veteran state Sen. Don DeWitte in the 33rd state Senate District are Republican primary candidates Jessica Breugelmans, 44, and Danielle Penman, 49. DeWitte, who last July announced he would be stepping down when his term ends in 2027, has a reputation as a smart conservative who offered a consistent voice on the need for fiscal restraint, and became a leader on transportation and infrastructure issues, as well as energy. This district touches parts of many suburbs, running from Crystal Lake in McHenry County down to Elburn in Kane County.
As Senate Democrats rev up another push for more tax hikes, Springfield will need rational voices who not only defend taxpayers, but also present reasonable solutions to address the very real budgetary issues that continue to plague the state year after year.
Both Breugelmans and Penman align closely with our views on the need to limit government and ensure responsible spending and tax policy. Both recognize the need for reforms to our broken state pension systems. Both women support school choice, but Breugelmans has made a much greater appeal on this issue and education more broadly, which matters greatly in this district. Her energy and ground game give her a distinct advantage, and, frankly, are much needed among a deflated Illinois Republican Party.
Breugelmans is endorsed.
Read all of the Tribune Editorial Board’s endorsements for the 2026 Illinois primary election here.
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