“It’s an honor to be named chairperson. I am truly humbled and eager to work with my fellow African Americans to advance causes in the best interest of all state citizens, not just minorities.” – Sen. Emil Jones III

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Emil Jones III (D–Chicago) was elected chairperson of the Illinois Senate’s Black Caucus yesterday.

“It is an honor to be named chairperson,” Jones said. “I am truly humbled and eager to work with my fellow African Americans to advance causes in the best interest of all state citizens, not just minorities.”

Sen. Emil Jones III is the son of one of the most recognized African American lawmakers in Illinois Senate history, former Senate President Emil Jones Jr.

“I am sincerely grateful for the privilege to serve as chairperson,” Jones said. “I look forward to sharing and cooperating with my fellow black legislators and the great things we are going to accomplish together this year.”

Jones has been a member of the Black Caucus since joining the Illinois Senate in 2009 and has previously served as Black Caucus Secretary. This is his first time being elected chairperson.