* Rolling Meadows Mayor Tom Rooney basically now has a lock on replacing former Sen. Matt Murphy, who officially submitted his resignation today. The last remaining major candidate, Palatine Township Republican Committeeman Aaron Del Mar, has dropped out and endorsed Rooney. From Del Mar…

For those of us who believe in reform and know change is desperately needed in Springfield, nothing is more important than a strong, unified Republican Party. That is why today I am withdrawing from consideration for the Senate seat in the 27th district and endorsing Tom Rooney. Tom has been an effective, reform-oriented mayor in Rolling Meadows and I’m confident he will bring the same type of leadership to Springfield. I look forward to continuing to serve at the local level.

The vote was likely going against Del Mar anyway, but this all but seals the deal.

*** UPDATE 1 ***  This is a nice gesture for a retiring member…

Illinois Senate Republican Leader Christine Radogno announced today the appointment of Senator Dave Luechtefeld (R-Okawville) as Deputy Minority Leader. Radogno made her announcement as the resignation of Senator Matt Murphy, announced last month, became official on Thursday.

“I have had the privilege to know and work with Dave Luechtefeld for 20 years,” said Radogno. “Dave is a tireless fighter for the needs of southern Illinois, while also demonstrating his leadership skills and ability to see the state as a whole. Dave and I began our careers as freshman seatmates on the floor of the Illinois Senate. With this appointment, he will end his career as my seatmate.” Luechtefeld, who has served in the Illinois Senate since 1995, was previously serving in leadership as the Assistant Minority Leader.

“I appreciate the opportunity to serve as Deputy Leader through the end of my term,” said Luechtefeld. “As Illinois continues to face many difficult challenges in the months ahead, I am hopeful that as Deputy Leader I can contribute in a new way in meeting those challenges.”

Today’s appointment takes effect immediately. The position carries no increase in salary. Luechtefeld is not a member of the General Assembly retirement system and will receive no General Assembly pension.

*** UPDATE 2 *** As expected…

Northwest suburban Republicans on Thursday chose Rolling Meadows Mayor Tom Rooney to replace departing state Sen. Matt Murphy, a move that came after a string of other candidates dropped out of the running.

Rooney, 48, says he’ll step down in the coming weeks from his village post as he transitions into representing the 27th Senate District, which includes parts of Palatine, Mount Prospect, Prospect Heights, Arlington Heights, Rolling Meadows and Inverness.