Prior to coming to the Illinois State Senate, LaHood spent more than nine years serving as a State and Federal Prosecutor. From 2001-2006, LaHood worked for the George W. Bush administration as an Assistant United State’s Attorney in Las Vegas, Nevada. In that position, LaHood served in several capacities including as the Chief Terrorism Prosecutor and as the Lead Coordinator for the Project Safe Neighborhoods Program. Senator LaHood has also served as Assistant State’s Attorney in Cook County in the Narcotics Unit and a Felony Prosecutor with the Tazewell County State’s Attorney’s Office. In 2005, LaHood was recognized by both the US Department of Justice and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) in Nevada for his “outstanding work in fighting terrorism” and making America safer. Since 2006, LaHood has practiced as an attorney with the Peoria law firm of Miller, Hall & Triggs.

Since taking office, Senator LaHood has achieved a strong record as a leading fiscal conservative in Springfield. He never forgets that every dollar spent in Springfield has come out of the pockets of hard-working taxpayers and must be used responsibly. LaHood, understanding Illinois’ dire financial situation, has advocated for responsible budgeting to put the state back on track to fiscal health and bring fiscal sanity to the state budget. He has voted against legislation that would increase spending in Illinois and has supported legislation to repeal the tax hike passed in January of 2011. LaHood has been an outspoken advocate for creating a better business climate in Illinois to boost the state’s economy, and create jobs for Illinoisans.

Recognizing the need for reform, as State Senator for the 37th District, LaHood has fought to increase transparency and promote ethical behavior in Springfield. Since taking office, LaHood has sponsored and co-sponsored more than 15 pieces of legislation that would significantly reform state government. These bills include measures that would create term limits for elected officials, increase transparency, and establish higher ethical standards for lobbyist and elected officials.

Senator LaHood’s work championing the ideals of small government and responsible budgeting has been recognized by various organizations including the Illinois Policy Institute, which awarded him a perfect score for his voting record on its General Assembly Vote Card.

Senator LaHood, a third generation Peorian, graduated from Spalding High School. He earned a B.A. from Loras College and holds a J.D. from The John Marshall Law School. In 2008, Darin was recognized as an area leader and awarded the Peoria Area 40 Leaders Under 40 award.

Senator LaHood resides in Dunlap, with his wife Kristen. They are the proud parents of three sons, McKay, Luke, and Teddy.