Former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan selected Angelica Guerrero-Cuellar to fill his seat as representative for the 22nd House District after his first choice, Edward Guerra Kodatt, resigned due to allegations of questionable conduct.

Madigan resigned as chairman of the state Democratic Party on Monday but remains Democratic committeeman for the 13th Ward.

Rep. Guerrero-Cuellar will serve as representative for the 22nd House District for the remainder of Madigan’s term.

The Illinois House elected Rep. Emanuel “Chris” Welch as speaker of the House.

This took place shortly after the swearing-in of newly elected General Assembly members, to start the 2021 regular session.

Welch succeeds Rep. Michael Madigan, the longest-serving statehouse speaker in U.S. history, and becomes the first Black person to hold the position.

Three women who were running for the position withdrew before the vote after Welch entered the race following an announcement by Madigan he was suspending his own campaign.

The Illinois Legislature began a final session for the 101st General Assembly on January 8.

The Senate met at the Capitol while the House met at the Bank of Springfield Center.

The separate meeting locations accommodated social distancing due to COVID-19 concerns.

Rep. Patrick Windhorst indicated if ethics reforms were not addressed, he would refile a proposal for the 102nd General Assembly, set to convene January 13.

Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan announced he is suspending his bid for another term as speaker, but is not withdrawing from the race.

A speaker must be elected before the House of Representatives can begin work.