Illinois GOP Rep. Aaron Schock announced today that he would resign effective March 31 amid mounting questions about his improper use of campaign and official funds. Earlier this month, Schock repaid $40,000 in official funds he used to redecorate his office in the style of "Downton Abbey." Schock's resignation, first reported by Politico, is embarrassing for a party that not long ago counted Schock as a rising star, but won't give Democrats an opportunity to win a seat. In 2012 redistricting, Illinois Democrats packed Schock's once-competitive central Illinois seat with Republican voters to try to win the neighboring 13th and 17th districts. As a result, 2012 GOP presidential nominee Mitt Romney won the 18th CD with 61 percent. GOP Gov. Bruce Rauner is likely to call a special election in June or July, and the seat will remain in the Solid Republican column as the field of potential candidates sorts itself out.
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