Gianulis resigns after leading RI County Democrats for 4 decades
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By Ed Tibbetts | Thursday, February 14, 2008 |
John Gianulis (Times file photo) Buy this Photo
Longtime Rock Island County Democratic Chairman John Gianulis is resigning from his job after 40 years, according to a letter sent to party leaders today.
Gianulis, who became the county chair in 1968, is credited with turning the county from a Republican stronghold into a place where Democrats now fully dominate. “This party will never be the same without big John,” said Virgil Mayberry, a Rock Island County Board member and precinct committeeman.
Gianulis, who is in his mid-80s, has not only been a powerful force locally, but as chairman of the downstate county Democratic Party chairs, his influence spread statewide. Until 2006, he held a top personnel post in Illinois Gov. Rod Blagojevich’s administration.
“It is with regret and anticipation that I submit this letter of resignation as chairman of the Rock Island County Democratic Central Committee,” Gianulis said in the letter. “I’ve worked with you over the past 40 years to build an organization that we can all be very proud of. Health issues are now dictating that my time as your leader has come to an end.“
The letter did not say when the resignation would be effective, but a county convention is scheduled next month.
There are likely to be several suitors for his job. One of the names mentioned today was former Sen. Denny Jacobs of East Moline.
Several party officials said the county’s precinct committeemen will take on the task of selecting a new leader. Gianulis, in his letter, called it an honor and privilege to serve, adding, “I leave my position with confidence that you will choose a leader that will continue to make our organization strong and reflective of all the Democrats we serve.“
Contact Ed Tibbetts at (563) 383-2327 or etibbetts@qctimes.com.
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