Harrisburg Democratic leader thrilled to be at Pritzker inauguration

SPRINGFIELD - A Harrisburg woman, who happens to be a high-ranking Democratic state party vice-chair, said she enjoyed attending Gov. J.B. Pritzker's inauguration Monday because of positive changes its means for the state.

Pritzker became Illinois' 43rd Governor Monday, and Vivian Robinson was there to observe and cheer.

"It was amazing," Robinson said. "It was almost overwhelming to be a part of it."

Robinson, indeed, was a part of the groundswell of Democrats who campaigned for Pritzker and fellow Democrats across the state prior to the 2018 General Election.

But Robinson wasn't just asking for votes for her party leaders. She also campaigned for the Democratic State Committeewoman position for the 15th Congressional District, which spanned the tip of Southern Illinois to Vermilion County, one of the largest geographical areas in such a district. That seat, which was decided in the 2018 Primary, went to Robinson after a grueling campaign schedule across the district.

Later in 2018, she was named the vice chair of the Illinois Democratic Party.

And Monday, all the effort was worth it, Robinson said.

"It is a wonderful day, and it was great to see Gov. Pritzker talk about the positive changes in store for Illinois," Robinson said. "These aren't just Chicago changes or northern Illinois changes. He has a vision and a plan for all of Illinois and Southern Illinois is a big part of that plan."

Later Monday night, Robinson was thrilled like other guests by a special concert appearance by Adam Levine and Maroon 5.

Mostly, though, she's excited at the thought of improving Illinois and the energy a new administration brings.

"I'm ready to get started, and the governor and lieutenant governor are ready. I'm honored to be a part of it," Robinson said.