Illinois Republican tapped to replace Schock on Ways and Means

Rep. Robert Dold (R-Ill.) will replace former Rep. Aaron Schock (R-Ill.) on the powerful House Ways and Means Commmitte, a plum committee assignment for a young lawmaker ahead of what’s expected to be a tough reelection fight.

 

Dold’s spokesman, Bradley Stewart, confirmed the appointment Wednesday night. The Chicago Sun-Times initially reported Dold would replace Schock, who resigned last month amid a slew of allegations about misuse of taxpayer and campaign dollars.

 

{mosads}The committee slot is considered one of the most prominent placements for any lawmaker, let alone a second-term member, because it holds jurisdiction over any legislation involving taxes.

 

Dold first won his seat during the 2010 election, but lost it two years later by slightly more than a percentage point to former Rep. Brad Schneider. Dold won back his seat in 2014 by defeating Schneider, but the two are expected to face off in yet another rematch in 2016.

 

The assignment could help Dold on the campaign trail, both with fundraising and beefing up his resume to pitch to potential voters.