“This is such an exciting opportunity to work for the people of Sangamon County,” Jimenez said. “I am looking forward to getting started.”
The oath was administered by Judge Carol Pope in the Illinois House chamber with Jimenez’s family, friends and new colleagues in attendance. Jimenez moved to Springfield when she was 5 years old. She attended Cathedral Grade School and is a graduate of Ursuline Academy, SIU Edwardsville and the University of Illinois at Springfield.
Jimenez is a familiar face to many in Sangamon County, working for five years as a reporter for WICS News Channel 20. She also served as press spokesperson for former House Republican Leader Tom Cross. Jimenez most recently worked as Chief of Staff to Illinois First Lady Diana Rauner. She served a single term on the Springfield Park Board. She was joined on the podium by her husband, Jose Carlos, and her twin sons, Charlie and Augie.
“We face a lot of challenges in Illinois, and I am eager to start working on finding a solution to our budget crisis and reforming state government,” Jimenez said.
The 99th district covers portions of Springfield and Sangamon County. Jimenez replaces Rep. Raymond Poe, who resigned last month to become the new director of the Illinois Department of Agriculture.