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Illinois voters head to polls in primary for Schock’s seat

In this June 24, 2015 photo, Republican candidates in a primary to fill Illinois’ 18th District seat from left, Michael Flynn, Donald Rients and Illinois state Sen. Darin LaHood prepare for a debate in Bloomington, Ill. They are running for the seat vacated in March by former U.S. Rep. Aaron Schock who resigned after mounting scrutiny of his extravagant spending. Two Democrats are also on Tuesday's ballot. (David Proeber/The Pantagraph via AP) In this June 24, 2015 photo, Republican candidates in a primary to fill Illinois’ 18th District seat from left, Michael Flynn, Donald Rients and Illinois state Sen. Darin LaHood prepare for a debate in Bloomington, Ill. They are running for the seat vacated in March by former U.S. Rep. Aaron Schock who resigned after mounting scrutiny of his extravagant spending. Two Democrats are also on Tuesday's ballot. (David Proeber/The Pantagraph via AP)

By Associated Press July 7, 2015 1 min read

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (AP) – Illinois primary voters are set to nominate candidates to replace ex-U.S. Rep Aaron Schock, once a rising star in Republican politics.

Schock resigned in March after mounting questions and news reports about his spending of taxpayer and campaign funds. That included redecorating his congressional office in the style of the TV show “Downton Abbey” and worldwide travels documented on Instagram.

The election Tuesday in heavily GOP territory features a classic Republican primary with party-backed candidate state Sen. Darin LaHood facing conservative writer Michael Flynn, who’s received tea party support.

LaHood is the son of former U.S. Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood. Flynn helped start a news website with late commentator Andrew Breitbart. One other Republican and two Democrats are running for office.

Low turnout is expected. The special general election is Sept. 10.