Business owner announces run for Cavaletto’s seat

A Beecher City resident, who co-owns and operates Longhorn Buildings, is making a run for state representative.

Blaine Wilhour is seeking the Republican nomination in the state House 107th district to replace state Rep. John Cavaletto, R-Salem, who is not running for re-election in 2018.

“I believe there comes a time when regular folks need to step up,” Wilhour said. “I’m running so we can create jobs, cut taxes, enact term limits, and protect our values. Never before has there been such a stark contrast in priorities between the politicians and the hard-working Illinoisans who they supposedly work for, that must change.”

Wilhour said he wants to see the recent income tax hike rolled back, improve the state’s business climate, protect conservative values and eliminate legislator pensions, among other things.

He and his wife, Amber, have three children. He is a U.S. Army veteran and a former member of the Fayette County Board.

Last week, Adam Smith of Centralia, had announced a run, but then quickly dropped out.

This story was originally published October 3, 2017 at 2:17 PM with the headline "Business owner announces run for Cavaletto’s seat."