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Senator Mike Jacobs Bio

Illinois State Senator Mike Jacobs was elected in 2005 to represent the 36th State Senate District; consisting of the Quad Cities and Carroll, Henry, Mercer, Rock Island and Whiteside counties in northwest Illinois.

Senator Jacobs’ passion is progress and he consistently demonstrates dedication to move Illinois forward. This year, he helped pass a capital construction plan to update the state’s infrastructure by repairing crumbling roads and schools, something that hasn’t been done in over ten years. The plan encompasses a vast number of projects and creates thousands of jobs. Jacobs pushes to specifically funds education in his district, a constant career goal.

In the capital plan, Jacobs fought to secure funds of over $11 million for Silvis Junior High School and over $57 million in renovations and construction of a new Western Illinois University – Quad Cities riverfront campus. When elected, Jacobs’ district contained the largest community of students without a four-year university. Now, finally, a campus can be provided for those students.

Jacobs carries on a proud family tradition of public service in northwest Illinois as the fourth member of his family to serve in the Illinois Legislature. Prior to joining the Illinois State Senate, he was a downstate liaison to Illinois Secretary of State Jesse White where he managed driver facilities in 14 northwest counties from 1999 to early 2005. From 1989 to 1997 he was the owner of River Research, a full-scale public affairs firm specializing in the areas of campaigns, elections and research.

Currently the Chairperson of the Energy Committee and Vice Chair Person of the Telecommunications Committee, Jacobs also serves on the Committee of the Whole, Insurance, Appropriations I and Revenue Committees.

Senator Jacobs resides in East Moline with his son, Elliott.

He can be reached at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it or by calling his district office at 309-797-0001.

Senator Mike Jacobs


36th District

Years served:
2005 - Present (Senate)

Committee assignments: Committee of the Whole; Insurance; Appropriations I; Revenue; Telecommunications & Technology (Vice-Chairperson); Energy (Chairperson); Revenue Subcomm. on Special Issues; Subcommittee on Insurance Mandates.

Biography: Appointed to Senate on February 9, 2005; born June 25, 1960, in Moline, Illinois; B.S. in political studies from University of Illinois at Springfield; M.S., political science, University of West Florida; former Downstate Liaison to Illinois Secretary of State Jesse White; fourth generation family member to serve in the Illinois General Assembly; married (wife, Beth Wendt), has one son, Elliott.