John Milhiser was confirmed Wednesday as U.S. attorney for central Illinois, becoming the first permanent appointee to the job since President Donald Trump took office.
Milhiser, a former Sangamon County state’s attorney, has been acting U.S. attorney since October. Senators confirmed Milhiser on Wednesday along with dozens of other Trump nominees, a rare moment of bipartisan agreement as Congress wrapped up its session. The new Congress convened Thursday.
Trump announced Milhiser’s nomination in August. Sens. Dick Durbin and Tammy Duckworth, both Illinois Democrats, praised Milhiser’s unanimous confirmation.
“We expect him to continue to be a diligent, thoughtful, and principled U.S. attorney. We look forward to working with him in this role,” the senators said in a statement.
U.S. Reps. Rodney Davis and Darin LaHood also welcomed his confirmation.
“John Milhiser is a great choice for U.S. attorney and I applaud his confirmation by the Senate,” said Davis. “His exemplary record and service to Central Illinois throughout the years will ensure he’s able to begin the important work of this office immediately. I look forward to having his leadership in the Central District.”
Added LaHood: “John Milhiser is a career prosecutor with a tremendous record of being tough on crime, enforcing the rule of law and pursuing justice. He is an excellent choice to lead the Central District of Illinois as U.S. attorney, and I applaud the Senate’s unanimous confirmation of him. His reputation for integrity and fairness will serve him and the citizens of the Central District well.”
The Central District of Illinois is based in Springfield and covers 46 counties. McLean County is served by the branch office in Peoria. The district hasn't had a permanent U.S. attorney since the December 2016 retirement of Jim Lewis, who led the office for over six years during the Obama administration.
People like you value experienced, knowledgeable and award-winning journalism that covers meaningful stories in Bloomington-Normal. To support more stories and interviews like this one, please consider making a contribution.
