Benson to Battle Rezin in 38th

Christine Benson bested her three-candidate field in the Democratic Primary by a wide margin.

But now she has to contend with a Republican incumbent whose vote total more than doubled that of her and her two competitors combined.

Benson, the Superintendent of Schools for Streator Elementary District 44, beat out Kevin Kunkel and Tom Ganiere to get on the November ballot for the 38th Senate District race. But she is going to have an uphill battle on her hands when she takes on Sue Rezin, R-Morris. Rezin has been a member of the Illinois Senate since 2010.

But Benson believes she is up to the task.

"I'm absolutely up for the challenge and I'm excited for the race this fall," Benson said, telling how she is already used to the hard work and long hours it will take to get the job done.

"I'm truly excited and humbled," Benson said of her triumph in the primary.

The 38th District includes parts Will, Grundy and LaSalle counties.

Rezin failed to return calls for comment.