Schock's constituents expressed surprise at his resignation

PEORIA, Ill. (AP) - Illinois Congressman Aaron Schock's constituents are struggling with the news the 18th District Republican will vacate his seat later this month after a barrage of questions about spending irregularities.

Many, like Barbara O'Dell, expressed surprise Tuesday about his decision.

O'Dell says she watched Schock's rise from a school board member to Congress. She calls Schock brazen, adding voters tend to forget and re-elect his type. She said she assumed he would "wait it out."

Tyler Beall, a Bradley University student and waiter at a Peoria restaurant, called the situation "kind of sad to see."

The congressman's office was largely quiet late Tuesday. Staff members had no comment on Schock's announcement, though one said he learned of it on television.

GOP leaders say State Sen. Darin LaHood is expected to run for the seat.