Illinois GOP chairman McKenna quits; ex-prosecutor will replace him

SPRINGFIELD -- The Illinois Republican Party has picked an attorney and former federal prosecutor as its new chairman.

Pat Brady replaces Andy McKenna, who resigned Thursday at a meeting of the state party before Republican Day at the Illinois State Fair.

Brady says his sole focus is getting Republicans elected in 2010.

Brady lives in St. Charles and is a committeeman for the Republican National Committee.

McKenna says he decided to step down now so the Illinois GOP wouldn't have to elect a new leader next spring in the middle of a general election. He says it's better that the GOP be focused on beating Democrats and not on electing a party leader.