Carbondale Reporter

Representative Patrick Windhorst claimed victory at the polls in a recent June election and is heading uncontested to the November General election.

“Thank you to the voters of the 117th District for your support and the great Election Results tonight,” Windhorst wrote on Facebook. “I am honored for the continued opportunity to represent Southern Illinois and be your voice in Springfield.”

WSILTV reported there is no Democrat candidate for the 117th District.

Windhorst was elected to represent the people of the 118th District in November 2018, and he was sworn in on Jan. 9, 2019. Before that, he was elected state’s attorney for Massac County in 2004. He stayed in office until he was elected to serve as a state representative in 2018.

Vote Smart wrote Windhorst voted against House Bill 3125 — it won by 68 to 35 votes. The bill required future homes built to have increased electric vehicle compatibility.

Windhorst recently cheered the U.S. Supreme Court decision striking down New York's public carry law.

“I am greatly encouraged by SCOTUS ruling in favor of the 2nd Amendment Right of individuals to carry concealed firearms outside of their residence for self-defense and personal protection," Windhorst said in a release posted on Facebook, describing the decision as a "win for personal safety and individual constitutional rights.”

Vote Smart also wrote he voted in favor to prohibit school discrimination based on hairstyles.

Windhorst announced his intention to run for the 117th in October 2021. He told the Marion Republican:

“After dethroning a political dynasty in 2018, I went to work in Springfield to fight corruption, enact pro-growth policies, and push back against the Democrat's never-ending attack on our Southern Illinois values,” Windhorst said. “I have amassed a rock-solid conservative voting record of opposing every single tax increase that came through the House, opposing any infringements on our Second Amendment rights, and defending the lives of the unborn. I look forward to providing Southern Illinois a conservative voice once again.”