Scott Doody Endorsed for Illinois 118th House District Republican Primary

The Chicago Tribune Editorial Board backs Doody as the candidate who can navigate Springfield.

Published on Feb. 18, 2026

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The Chicago Tribune Editorial Board has endorsed Scott Doody in the Republican primary for the Illinois 118th House District. Doody, a former radio host and author, is described as a serious and measured conservative who could effectively represent the district in Springfield. The editorial notes that Doody, along with other Republican candidates Dayton Loyd and Harold Visser, share similar positions on key issues like opposing tax hikes, supporting school choice, and reforming the SAFE-T Act. However, the board believes Doody stands out as someone who could navigate the political landscape in the state capital.

Why it matters

This endorsement carries significant weight as the Chicago Tribune is one of the most influential media outlets in Illinois. The 118th House District race is an important contest that will help determine the balance of power in the state legislature, where Republicans are the minority party. Doody's endorsement suggests he is viewed as a pragmatic conservative who could work across the aisle, which could be valuable in a divided government.

The details

The current Republican state representative for the 118th District, Paul Jacobs, is running for the state Senate, leaving the House seat open. Doody, Loyd, and Visser are the three Republican candidates vying to replace Jacobs. The editorial board notes that while the candidates share similar policy positions, Doody stands out as someone who could effectively navigate the political landscape in Springfield.

  • The Illinois primary election is scheduled for March 18, 2026.

The players

Scott Doody

A 62-year-old former radio host and author who the Chicago Tribune Editorial Board believes can effectively represent the 118th House District in Springfield as a conservative willing to think independently.

Paul Jacobs

The current Republican state representative for the 118th District, who is running for the state Senate, leaving the House seat open.

Dayton Loyd

A 60-year-old U.S. Army and National Guard veteran whose son, Joshua Loyd, previously earned the Tribune's endorsement in the Republican primary for U.S. Congress in the 13th District.

Harold Visser

A 41-year-old entrepreneur and homeschool dad with six kids who is also running in the Republican primary for the 118th House District.

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What they’re saying

“I have always prided myself on being a conservative voice, but one that was willing to think independently.”

— Scott Doody (Chicago Tribune)

What’s next

The Illinois primary election is scheduled for March 18, 2026, where voters in the 118th House District will choose their Republican nominee.

The takeaway

The Chicago Tribune's endorsement of Scott Doody in the Republican primary for the 118th Illinois House District suggests he is viewed as a pragmatic conservative who could effectively represent the district and work across the aisle in the state legislature, which is an important quality given the current balance of power in Springfield.