ARLINGTON HEIGHTS — Mark L. Walker was sworn in as the new state senator for the 27th District on Saturday.

Walker, who represented the 53rd House District since 2019, replaces Ann Gillespie who resigned her seat to become director of the Illinois Department of Insurance.

“I’m deeply honored to have been appointed as the new state senator for the 27th District,” said Walker (D-Arlington Heights). “Former Senator Gillespie leaves behind a huge legacy, but I’m excited to represent the residents of the 27th District, advocating for a better Illinois for all.”

While in the House, Walker served many of the communities within the 27th Senate District, bringing to this role continuity for the residents of the Northwest Suburbs.

A Vietnam veteran, Walker sits on the Senate Veterans Committee, as well as the Early Childhood Education, Financial Institutions and Revenue Committees.