Illinois Speaker of the House Emanuel “Chris” Welch has served as Speaker for five years. He is the first Black Speaker of the House. Welch represents Illinois’ 7th House of Representatives District. It encompasses Broadview, Bellwood, Berkeley, Elmhurst, Forest Park, Hillside, Hinsdale, Oak Park, La Grange Park, Maywood, Oak Brook, River Forest, Westchester and Western Springs.
