Brian Deters grew up in Quincy. He taught social studies at Morton High School before his wife was transferred to Switzerland for her job with Caterpillar. He said the family has lived in Switzerland for the past five years but is in the process of moving back to Illinois.
Deters said he’s running because he’s a father and a teacher, and is concerned about the political and cultural divides in the nation.
“I know that we have so much more that connects us and that unites us. I can be somebody that can motivate people. I can bring people together.”
Deters said he has a unique perspective of the sprawling congressional district because he has lived in various parts of it over the years. And Deters said he’s now seeing things through a completely different lens because of his time spent overseas. He said he can be a fresh voice for the district.
Three people are running for the Democratic nomination for Congress in the 18th District: Deters, Darrel Miller, and Junius Rodriguez.
Two candidates are seeking the Republican nomination: Donald Rients and current Congressman Darin LaHood.
Early voting is already underway for the March 20 primary.