Welch exits Illinois House Speaker role after three terms

Illinois House Speaker Chris Welch is stepping down from his leadership role. The move ends his tenure as the head of the state's lower chamber following intense scrutiny over his management of a harassment investigation.

Welch announced the decision just days after the November 2026 midterm elections. Lawmakers will now select a new leader to guide the Democratic caucus into the upcoming session. In a statement, Welch said he served at the pleasure of the caucus and wanted them to lead in unity.

The controversy centers on the handling of allegations against former State Rep. Harry Benton. An Inspector General’s report found clear patterns of conduct that were outrageous, unethical, and unbecoming after Benton was accused of sexually harassing a former staffer. Benton resigned his seat earlier this summer.

Prior to his departure from the chamber, Benton was removed from the House Democratic Caucus and stripped of all committee assignments. Critics question what Welch knew about the situation and when he became aware of it. Numerous high-profile lawmakers and organizations formally requested his resignation during the past few months.

Welch had previously told NBC Chicago’s Mary Ann Ahern that it was the honor of a lifetime to serve in the role for three terms. He emphasized that he gave his best every day while walking into the capitol. The statement marks the end of his current leadership stint as the caucus prepares for its next term.