Fowler upsets Forby to claim 59th District Senate seat

MARION - Harrisburg's Dale Fowler is stepping up his game. After spending only two years as the city's mayor, he will now represent 11 Southern Illinois counties as newly-elected senator of the 59th District beginning in January.

A Republican, Fowler upset 13-year Democratic incumbent, Gary Forby of Benton, garnering 57 percent of the vote Tuesday to Forby's 43 percent. More than 80,000 votes were cast in all.

"I am ready to get to work. I have always been thrilled with a challenge," Fowler said. "I was raised in service. Right now, my main concern is putting this campaign behind us and working toward a balanced state budget, while at the same time taking care of our schools and social agencies."

Fowler said he realizes the problems of the state will not get solved overnight, but he would like to be a "piece to the puzzle" that gets things moving in the right direction.

The 59-year-old Fowler said he hasn't thought too much about giving up his mayoral position, stating that his focus had instead been on his campaign.

"The city is going to be in good hands with whoever takes over the job, but there are still things I would like to get done before I leave," he said. "I believe Harrisburg has a very bright future."

Fowler said he never dreamed two years ago when he was appointed mayor and then elected last year that he would be in the position he is today as senator-elect.

"It's kind of surreal," he said. "I just think the timing was perfect for me. I am excited about it."

Forby took the loss in stride, calling Fowler to concede the race before its conclusion.

"It has been a wonderful honor representing the working families that make up the 59th Senate District of Southern Illinois," he said. "I've been blessed to meet and become great friends with so many during my time in office and would like to thank our supporters this time around."

Forby, 71, said he didn't get the result he was hoping for, but wishes Fowler the best of luck in representing the region.

Forby served in the Illinois House of Representatives from 2001-03 and was then chosen to fill former State Sen. Larry Woolard's seat in 2003.