Working with legislators on both sides of the aisle to bring economic development and prosperity to downstate Illinois is priority one for Rep. Phelps. He has fought for the rights of union members throughout Illinois, with safe working conditions and fair wages as just two of the issues that he has championed on behalf of the thousands of working men and women in his district.

As chairman of the newly-created House Committee on Rural Economic Development, Phelps is committed to working with business leaders to attract jobs to Southern Illinois. In addition, Phelps introduced and passed legislation making Illinois the first state to prevent the federal government from reducing the number of Illinoisans eligible for overtime pay.

As a father, Rep. Phelps understands the importance of giving our children a top-notch education. He supports dedicating 51% of all new state revenues toward education and meets regularly with local educators to hear their ideas about ways to improve the public education system.

As the lead sponsor on the “Let Them Rest in Peace Act,” Phelps stood up for our fallen soldiers by restricting the ability of hate groups to protest at a soldier’s funeral.

A hunter and sportsman, Phelps has consistently fought for 2 nd Amendment rights and to protect the rights and traditions of Southern Illinois sportsmen.

Phelps is a native of Southern Illinois and public service is a tradition in the Phelps family. Brandon's uncle, Congressman David Phelps, held the same legislative seat until 1998, when he was elected to Congress.

Phelps graduated from Eldorado High School in 1988 and attended Southeastern Illinois College (1990) before receiving his bachelor's degree in political science from Eastern Illinois University in 1992. He then began his career in government service at the Illinois Treasurer's Office, where he worked for three years.

Professional Affiliations

Board of Directors TLC - The Therapy Center

AFL-CIO Member

Laborers' International Union of North America Member

National Rifle Association Member

Ducks Unlimited Member

National Wild Turkey Federation Member

Star General Baptist Church Member