The Illinois primaries are not until early next year. But two candidates have already said they’re running for office in McDonough County.
Republicans Nigel Graham and Ian Fischer announced their campaigns together during an event at the Old Bailey House in Macomb.
Judge Nigel Graham
Graham was appointed an associate judge in 2019. Now he’s running to be the resident circuit judge in McDonough County, a position that’s been vacant since Ninth Circuit Judge William Poncin retired last year.
As an attorney, Graham served as a prosecutor and as a public defender, and he gained experience in a law firm.
“So overall, before going on the bench, I did handle about every type of case that you can possibly have, which has really paid off dividends as a judge,” he said, pointing out that he’s heard just about every type of case during his time as a judge.
Graham said he has assessed each case on its own merits the past four years, and would continue to do so if elected resident circuit judge.
“Anything I do rule on is on the record with the courthouse, so anyone is free to look at my cases and read my decisions and transcripts. That’s all public record and I’m happy for anybody to look at that,” he said.
Graham said he announced his candidacy so early to give voters plenty of time to get to know him.
Circuit Clerk Ian Fischer
Fischer is also engaged in the court system. He is McDonough County’s circuit clerk. The office maintains all documents filed with the court system, clerks court hearings, and more.
The county board appointed Fischer to the position last summer when Kim Wilson retired after 18 years. Now he’s running for a full term.
“In my short time as circuit clerk, dealing with the changing environment of the courts – the Zoom court and the e-filing and all the technology – I’ve very much enjoyed it and I decided that it was something I wanted to continue to do,” he said, adding that the Illinois Supreme Court is placing an emphasis on technology improvements for courts statewide.
Although he’s running as a Republican, Fischer said there is not a Republican or Democratic way to run the circuit clerk’s office.
“Most of the duties are set by statute. We’re the keeper of the records. It’s not a political position in terms of how we affect the community. We just try to keep the court running smooth,” he said.
Like Graham, Fischer said experience makes him a logical choice. He has worked in the circuit clerk’s office for 17 years.
He said he knows how the office runs, and he is prepared for the changes coming to the office in the years ahead.
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