Ill. Sen. Bill Brady will not seek Schock's seat in Congress

WASHINGTON (WLS) -- Ill. Sen. Bill Brady announced Wednesday he will not seek the 18th District seat in Congress following Rep. Aaron Schock's decision to resign.

Brady said he plans to continue serving Illinois citizens in the State Senate and looks forward to working with Governor Bruce Rauner.

"I'm very flattered that many supporters and residents of Central Illinois have suggested I seek the seat in Congress representing the 18th Congressional District. I have decided, however, to remain in the Illinois Senate at the current time because of my business interests and my wish to help Governor Rauner resolve the many challenges Illinois faces," Brady said in a statement on Wednesday.

A special election will be held to replace Schock, who announced Tuesday he will resign on March 31.

Rep. Aaron Schock

Ill. Sen. Darin LaHood, son of former U.S. Transportation Secretary and Congressman Ray LaHood, said he plans to seek Schock's Congressional seat. The Republican from Dunlap announced his candidacy Wednesday on WMBD radio in Peoria.

LaHood said he has received "a lot encouragement" to run and that he'll campaign on his state Senate record, which includes being a strong advocate for ethics reform. LaHood has served in the Senate since 2011. His father preceded Schock in Congress.

Ill. Sen. Jason Barickman of Bloomington is also considering a bid for Schock's seat.

Brady said Wednesday his brother, Ed Brady, and Ill. Rep. Dan Brady of Bloomington have also expressed interest in the 18th District seat.

He said all four of his colleagues "have great potential for serving Central and Western Illinois well in Washington."

The Associated Press contributed to this report.