Mussman holding lead over Kegarise in 56th District race

Incumbent Democrat Michelle Mussman of Schaumburg holds a lead over Republican Scott Kegarise, the Schaumburg Township highway commissioner, in the State House 56th District.

With 98% of precincts reporting, Mussman received 19,533 votes (53%), and Kegarise captured 17,152 (47%) votes.

Early votes and many mail-in ballots are being counted, but mail-in ballots requested by voters would still be returned and counted if they arrive by Nov. 17.

The 56th District includes parts of Elk Grove Village, Hanover Park, Hoffman Estates, Palatine, Rolling Meadows, Roselle and Schaumburg.

The candidates disagreed about the finances of state government, with Mussman supporting the graduated income tax referendum as a way to help the state's bottom line, and Kegarise arguing that the current flat tax is sufficient. Kegarise also said the state must cut spending, while Mussman responded by saying many of the state's expenses are mandated by state and federal law.