Bryant 'cautiously optimistic' as she takes oath of office to begin fourth term in office

State Rep. Terri Bryant, R-Murphysboro, took the oath of office on Wednesday, Jan. 9, as she was sworn in for a fourth term  in office.

Bryant represents the 115th District in Southern Illinois. Part of Union County is in the district.

Bryant was reelected in November 2018 and began work in the 101st General Assembly on Thursday, Jan. 10.

“Inauguration Day is always a joyous and hopeful occasion,” Bryant said in a news release. 

“I am deeply honored and proud to serve the people of Southern Illinois as their state representative. 

“I want to thank the many friends, family members and supporters who made the trip to Springfield to watch the ceremony. 

“I sincerely hope that the good feelings that come about as a new legislature is seated will continue into the session and that we can work cooperatively as a body.”

Bryant said she took office “as the balance of power in Illinois government radically shifts toward Democratic control.” 

Democrats hold veto-proof majorities in both the Illinois House and Senate and will occupy all six constitutional offices, including the governor’s office. 

For her part, Bryant said she is “cautiously optimistic that Democrats will work across party lines.”

“The incoming governor has signaled a willingness, at least for now, to listen to ideas from Republicans and to work cooperatively,” Bryant said. 

“I have been encouraged by some of the personnel moves he has made already, but I will be watching closely when policy items begin to move in the House. 

“We might have a new governor, but we are still facing enormous challenges. 

“Property taxes are too high and people are leaving the state. We have to rebuild our infrastructure, and we must take steps to stop the out-migration of our citizens to neighboring states. These are enormous challenges that will require good ideas from both sides.”

The 115th District is located within the boundaries of all of Jefferson County, and parts of Jackson, Union, Washington, and Perry counties. 

Bryant has offices located in Murphysboro and Mt. Vernon. Constituents can visit her website at www.RepBryant.com.