Chicago State Legislator Voting Records & Candidates Like Rep. Croke

Margaret Croke, a Democrat representing Illinois’ 12th House District, is facing increased scrutiny as she considers a potential run for statewide office. The 12th District, entirely within Chicago, encompasses the neighborhoods of Lakeview East, Lincoln Park, Old Town and Gold Coast. Croke assumed office in January 2021, succeeding Yoni Pizer. Prior to entering the Illinois House, she served as Deputy Chief of Staff at the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO). She likewise held positions on Governor JB Pritzker’s transition team and as the statewide Women’s outreach Director for his 2018 gubernatorial campaign. Born in 1991 or 1992 in Oak Park, Illinois, Croke graduated from Oak Park and River Forest High School before earning a Bachelor of Arts degree in Political Science and Communications from the University of Michigan in 2014. She currently resides in Lincoln Park with her husband, Patrick, and their three children: PJ, Mary, and Hattie. Before her operate with the DCEO, Croke began her professional career as a Project Assistant at Sidley Austin in 2015, later transitioning to a role as Director of Scheduling for Cook County Commissioner Bridget Gainer. As Croke’s profile rises within the state Democratic party, attention is turning to her voting record and policy positions. While details of potential statewide campaigns remain unconfirmed, her legislative actions in the Illinois House are coming under closer examination. The timing of any announcement regarding a run for higher office remains undisclosed.