How things work? Darby Hills is listed as a “Public Precinct Committeeperson” in the 84th Precinct of ELA TOWNSHIP* as of 2/18/25 at 5:09:59PM. Problem is she does not live in Ela Township.
The backroom maneuvering to install the unqualified Darby Hills as a State Senator has only gotten uglier. Hills allegedly put her name in following recruitment by Dan McConchie, Keith Brin, and John Curran, and another attempt will be made by this threesome to ensure she secures the title of State Senator.
Curran, Brin, and McConchie first attempted to install Joe Salvi in the seat through a backroom deal, but when that failed, they turned to Hills. Now, they are hoping to push her through without public scrutiny.
The Barrington Hills Observer has learned that a second nominating meeting will take place tomorrow at 1 PM at the Palatine Township Republican offices, across the street from Rand Road (Route 12) and Quentin Road. This meeting has not been properly noticed to the public, likely by design—to minimize pushbacks.
Not since Helene Walsh have we seen such Republican incompetence. It is astonishing that Senate GOP Leader John Curran and his team have chosen to back Hills over three highly qualified Republican candidates:
- Chris Borawski – A longtime conservative leader.
- Tosi Ufodike – A resolute Republican candidate.
- Martin McLaughlin – A three-term State Representative (Republican) and former Mayor.
Hills’ lack of Republican credentials is just one of many concerns. Just days ago, she appointed as a Precinct Committeeperson in Ela Township* (not her own neighborhood). This was clearly a last-minute move to create the illusion of Republican involvement.
Can anyone seriously imagine Darby Hills walking door-to-door in Lake Zurich or Palatine, promoting other Republican candidates? The very job of a Precinct Committeeperson?
Why is this happening? Money! Hills has promised to self-fund her campaign, and the Senate Republican leadership is weak and desperate for cash.
The real question is: How far will local Republican leaders go to pretend Darby Hills is a legitimate legislator?
* Source
Related: ”26th Legislative District Committee meeting tomorrow,” “Do Over Scheduled for Meeting to Replace State Senator Dan McConchie,” “Restraining order sought to block 26th Senate appointment amid legal fight,” “Lawsuit challenges legality of GOP appointment to 26th State Senate seat,” “McConchie’s would-be successor isn’t a Republican and can’t serve, lawsuit alleges,” “Darby Hills Appointed as New State Senator for Illinois’ 26th Senate District”