Illinois' Sheila Simon Won't Seek Re-election

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Credit Chicago Press Release Services

Lt. Gov. Sheila Simon says she won't seek re-election next year but is weighing her options when it comes to seeking another public office. She declined to give details, but she spent much of a news conference yesterday playing up her legal and financial experience.

Political experts say the move points toward exploring a run for attorney general or another statewide office and would allow for Simon to fundraise separately from Gov. Pat Quinn, who has seen his approval rating dip. It would also allow Simon to see who else is running.

Attorney General Lisa Madigan says she hasn't decided yet on a 2014 gubernatorial run. Simon told Quinn her decision in December. She says in a few months she'll make another announcement about her future plans.