McSweeney wins second term in state House

Republican state Rep. David McSweeney is headed for a second term in Springfield, easily defeating Democratic challenger Bill Downs in the race for the Illinois House 52nd District seat, according to unofficial results Tuesday.

With all 92 precincts reporting, McSweeney had 20,076 votes, about 70 percent of the total. Downs had 8,578 votes.

McSweeney thanked 52nd District voters Tuesday night from his Barrington Hills home where he was watching election results with his family.

"I'm very thankful to my constituents and I will continue my fight to lower taxes and reduce spending in Springfield," McSweeney said.

Downs could not be reached for comment Tuesday night.

An information technology manager from Cary, Downs ran a low-key campaign without any discernible financial backing. He sat on the opposite side of the fence from McSweeney on several economic issues.

McSweeney was a proponent for cuts to the state budget, large and small. Among the smallest was his proposal to eliminate the position of lieutenant governor. Downs said some of the proposed budget cuts would be too deep and affect too many people.

McSweeney voted against the final 2013 pension-cutting deal sponsored by Madigan, calling it weak and arguing it won't save the state as much money as supporters promised. Downs said he would consider switching the state pension system to a 401(k)-style retirement plan.