Murphy defeats Thillens in state Senate race

Democratic incumbent Sen. Laura Murphy, who has been in office a year, said after her victory Tuesday she's ready to go back to pursue her agenda focused on the middle class.

With 136 of 144 precincts reporting, Murphy had 43,084 votes to 37,916 for Republican challenger Mel Thillens in the contest for the 28th Senate District, according to unofficial results.

Murphy, a former Des Plaines alderman, was appointed to the post after Dan Kotowski stepped down in October 2015. Thillens, a Park Ridge park board commissioner, made his second run for state office after losing to state Rep. Marty Moylan two years ago.

Murphy said she'll work to pass a property tax freeze, term limits for legislative leaders, and a state budget - as long as it doesn't hurt the middle class. "I'm willing to compromise, but not sell out."

During the campaign, Murphy and Thillens stuck to party line positions, and they questioned whether the other would be beholden to party leaders.

The district includes Des Plaines, Elk Grove Village, Park Ridge, Roselle and Schaumburg.