5 candidates have announced candidacy for 105th District, which includes La Salle County

The bid for the Republican nomination for state representative in the newly-drawn, vacant 105th District is drawing a crowd.

Candidates Kyle Ham, a former executive director of the Bloomington-Normal Economic Development Council, and Woodford County Sheriff’s Deputy Dennis Tipsword, have joined the race.

Former La Salle County State’s Attorney Karen Donnelly, of Tonica; Livingston County Board Member Mike Kirkton, of Gridley; and Benson resident Don Rients, who serves as president of Benson Fire Protection District, also are vying for the nomination.

The new district also includes parts of La Salle, Bureau, Putnam, Woodford, McLean, Tazewell, Livingston, Marshall, and Peoria counties.

The seat was held by Rep. Dan Brady, R-Bloomington, since 2001. The restructured district no longer includes Brady’s home. Brady announced he would not run for re-election, but will instead seek the Secretary of State post.

The primary is scheduled for June 28.