Illinois State Representative Mike Halpin announced Wednesday he’s running for State Senate.

“As each election season comes around, I ask myself how I can best serve my community,” Halpin told Local 4 News. “In 2022, I believe that is by running to represent western Illinois in the State Senate. Although I seriously considered a campaign for Congress, and would be honored to have the chance to serve where my mentor, Lane Evans, once did, I have to balance my public duties with the needs of my young family, and right now that means staying here and continuing my state legislative work and constituent service.”

Halpin was seen as a frontrunner to go for Cheri Bustos’ seat in Congress. Bustos announced in April that she would not run for re-election.

Halpin, a Rock Island resident, will run in the 36th district, currently served by Republican Neil Anderson.

Anderson, an Andalusia resident, was drawn out of that district in the initial redistricting maps — and that didn’t change in last week’s redraw.

Glen Evans, a Republican, declared his intent to run in August.

Halpin also serves as the Rock Island County Democratic Party Chair.