Biography:

Ray LaHood was born in Peoria, Ill., where he still resides. He attended Catholic grade and high schools in Peoria and Spoon River Community College in Canton, Ill. He graduated from Bradley University in Peoria with a bachelor's degree in sociology and education.

LaHood is a former teacher. He served as director of the Rock Island (Ill.) County youth services bureau and as chief planner for Bi-State Metropolitan Planning Commission, 1972-77.

He entered politics in 1977 as an administrative assistant to former U.S. Rep. Tom Railsback, a Moline, Ill., Republican. LaHood was appointed to the Illinois House in May 1982 to replace Ben Polk, who retired. LaHood ran for the seat and was defeated in November 1982 by 1,400 votes.

LaHood joined the staff of House Minority Leader Bob Michel in January 1983. He was Michel's chief of staff for three years. He was active in numerous civic groups, including the Peoria Area Chamber of Commerce, as well as the president of the school boards overseeing Peoria Catholic schools.

He was first elected to the U.S. House in 1994.

LaHood and his wife, Kathy, have four grown children.

Past Campaigns:

Ray LaHood was elected to the U.S. House in 1994, defeating G. Douglas Stephens with 60 percent of the vote. He was re-elected in 1996 with 59 percent of the vote, defeating Democrat Mike Curran.

LaHood was re-elected in 1998 without opposition. In 2000, LaHood was re-elected with 67 percent of the vote, defeating Joyce Harant. In 2002, he was unopposed in the general election.

In 1982, LaHood served nine months in the Illinois House, replacing the incumbent who retired. In November 1982, LaHood sought election to the seat, losing by 1,400 votes.

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