West Central Reporter

A fundraiser for the Republican nominee to the 74th Illinois House District is scheduled in Galesburg Monday, according to a Galva News report.

The Friends of Dan Swanson Committee's host committee, along with special guests, are planning the fundraiser for retired Lt. Col. Dan Swanson to promote his campaign for the soon-to-be-vacated state house seat. Swanson won the GOP nomination to the 74th House District in March, securing 49 percent of the nomination vote during the Republican Primary election. Swanson is running against Democrat attorney Bill Butts of Galesburg in the general election.

Both candidates are running for the House Seat of State Rep. Don Moffitt (R-Gilson) who is retiring. Moffitt, who also plans to attend the fundraiser, has endorsed Swanson.

Swanson previously won a straw poll at The Register-Mail’s candidate forum and debate in February. He has been endorsed by the Illinois Federation for Right to Life PAC. Swanson, who retired from the U.S. Army after 27 years of service, works on his family's hog farm in Alpha and oversees the Henry County Veteran's Assistance Commission.

Swanson is running on a campaign emphasizing passage of a balanced budget in the state without increasing taxes, redistricting reform popularly known as "free maps", and taking proper care of veterans, elderly and special needs children and adults.

Born July 30, 1959 in Woodhull, Swanson holds a Bachelor of Arts Degree from Western Illinois University, according to the biography on his campaign website. In addition to his extensive military career, which included deployments during the Iraq War, Swanson is Superintendent of Henry County Veterans Assistance Commission, which provides financial aid and transportation services to Iowa City Veterans Hospital for Henry County Veterans. Swanson also has provided financial assistance to veterans who needed assistance paying for utilities, rent and food.

He also serves on the Executive Board for the newly formed non-profit organization; Sundance for Our Soldiers (SOS), which provides equine-assisted services to veterans and dependents.

Swanson also has served 17 years on the AlWood Board of Education and two years on the Henry County Board and on Henry County's Planning Committee.

U.S. Rep. Darin LaHood (R-Peoria) is expected to headline the event from 6:30-8 p.m. at Fig’s Italian Steakhouse at 51 S. Prairie in Galesburg. Those who donate $500 or more may participate in a special reception with LaHood, scheduled to begin at 6 p.m.

Entry into the event is $25, with checks payable to Friends of Dan Swanson, 4282 Illinois Route 17, Alpha, IL 61341

Friends of Dan Swanson Committee's host committee include many Knox County community volunteers and activists, such as Dick and Pat Conklin, Frank and Debra Drago, Tony and Jodi Scott, and members of the Central Illinois ABATE.

In addition to Moffitt, elected officials endorsing and attending the event are state Sen. Chuck Weaver (R-Peoria), state Sen. Neil Anderson (R-Moline), state Rep. Norine Hammond (R-Macomb), and Republican candidate for the state Senate Jil Tracy.