Munson unseated by Farnham in 43rd House race

Going into Tuesday, Elgin Township Democrat Chairman John Hamilton had a hunch that Keith Farnham would take the 43rd District House seat from Ruth Munson.

"A whole lot of that has to do with our secret weapon in the White House," said Hamilton, referring to President Bush.

According to final unofficial vote totals available Wednesday morning, Farnham beat Munson 12,911 to 12,589, a margin of 322 votes.

"I walked five months, seven days a week. That makes a difference, especially against an incumbent," said Farnham, a Navy veteran.

During the campaign, Farnham painted Munson as a lawmaker who was lenient on criminals and voted against benefits for veterans.

Farnham said he would work to unite the area and bring back more funding for businesses that create jobs.

"I think we can do some good things. I think we can go to Springfield and work our butts off," he said.

Munson emphasized how she's helped bring jobs and industry to the area and linked Farnham to an unpopular Gov. Blagojevich.

"This is my third race. They've all been close," said Munson, who was first appointed to the seat in December 2002.