Illinois Senate President Don Harmon disputes $4M donation allegations

Illinois Senate President Don Harmon is under scrutiny for allegedly accepting $4 million more in campaign contributions than allowed by state law. The Illinois State Board of Elections claims that Harmon's campaign committee, Friends of Don Harmon for State Senate, exceeded legal limits within nine months of the March 2024 primary. Harmon disagrees with the board's interpretation but acknowledges the seriousness of the allegations, stating he is confident in resolving the matter. He has until April 18 to return the excess funds or face a potential fine of $6.1 million, although the enforcement of such penalties is historically weak. Senate Republican leader John Curran criticized the board's delayed action, arguing it disadvantaged GOP candidates. Harmon maintains that his campaign is reviewing the allegations with legal counsel and emphasizes his past support for campaign finance reform.