* Press release…

Brandon is one of a kind, so his shoes will never be filled.

* From the Southern Illinoisan earlier today…

Longtime State Rep. Brandon Phelps is resigning from his seat in the 118th District, Massac County Democratic Chairman Jeff Stafford confirmed on Friday.

Phelps has held the seat since 2003.

Stafford said he is not sure what the process will be to replace Phelps. Usually county chairmen of the counties in the legislative district meet with candidates for the position, then vote on a replacement. Phelps’ district includes all or parts of Saline, Jackson, Union, Massac, Johnson, Alexander, Pulaski, Hamilton, Hardin and Gallatin counties.

* WSIL TV had the scoop yesterday…

After nearly 15 years in Springfield, top Democratic officials confirm that State Representative Brandon Phelps will step down tomorrow due to health concerns over his eye, which he injured in a hunting accident years ago.

Phelps has held office since 2003, representing the state’s 118th District, which covers parts of 11 counties in southern Illinois.

But problems with his eye have caused him to miss time in the General Assembly over the past couple of years.

He is best known for working to pass the state’s concealed carry act in 2013.