The Illinoize

View Original

Conservative Radio Host Michael Koolidge to Challenge Underwood

Conservative talk show host Michael Koolidge interviews a Rockford Police officer earlier this year. Koolidge is expected to announce a challenge to Congresswoman Lauren Underwood (D-Naperville) next week. (Source: Facebook)

Sources confirm to The Illinoize that conservative talk show host Michael Koolidge will announce a campaign to unseat Congresswoman Lauren Underwood (D-Naperville) in the new 14th district next year.

Koolidge currently hosts a syndicated show that is based on WROK-AM in Rockford. He announced on his show Wednesday he would be ending his syndicated program this Friday.

Koolidge said he would be making a personal announcement on his next plans Monday in Sycamore.

Underwood survived a challenge in a more Republican-leaning 14th last year. The new district, drawn by Democrats, makes the district safer for Underwood, but also includes new and rural territory.

Koolidge did not return messages seeking comment.

(Disclosure: I have appeared multiple times on his show and consider him a friend. Koolidge has not told about his plans or confirmed this story.)

Patrick Pfingsten

@pfingsten1 patrick@theillinoize.com