New Lawmaker Sworn In To Replace Derrick Smith
CHICAGO (AP) -- The Illinois House has a new member.
The replacement chosen to fill the seat left vacant after former Rep. Derrick Smith was expelled by lawmakers has been sworn in.
Eddie Winters is a cop who was chosen by Democratic leaders to fill the seat until the winner of the November election takes office. Democratic officials in Chicago say he was sworn in Sunday. He'll represent the 10th legislative district, which includes parts of Chicago's West Side.
Smith remains on the ballot and could get his seat back, despite the expulsion and pressure from fellow Democrats to step aside.
Smith faces federal charges. Prosecutors allege he took a bribe to write what he thought was a letter of support for a day care center's state grant application. He's pleaded not guilty.
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