John C. Milhiser

Education

Milhiser received his undergraduate degree from James Madison University and his Juris Doctor from the University of Illinois College of Law. He served as the president of the Illinois State's Attorneys Association. Milhiser, endorsed by the Sangamon County Republican Party, defeated Ron Tupy, longtime chief legal counsel for the Illinois Prisoner Review Board by a three-to-one margin in the 2012 Republican primary and defeated Democratic candidate and labor attorney Ron Stradt in the general election. As the State's Attorney, he tried serious felony cases, including first degree murder, armed violence, attempted murder of a police officer, and sexual assault cases.

On November 14, 2023, John Milhiser was sworn in as Sangamon County State's Attorney for a second time after receiving unanimous approval from the Sangamon County Board. Milhiser, who previously served in the role from 2010 to 2018, returned to the position following the appointment of his successor, Dan Wright, to a judgeship in Illinois's 7th Circuit Court. In his initial remarks after being sworn in, Milhiser emphasized that his priorities include enhancing public safety and reducing violent crime throughout the county, and he underscored the importance of a collaborative, problem-solving approach to prosecution.

In the November 2024 election, Milhiser was re-elected, defeating trial attorney Kimberly Talken.

U.S. Attorney for the Central District of Illinois

On August 16, 2018, President Donald Trump announced his intent to nominate Milhiser to be the U.S. Attorney for the Central District of Illinois. On August 21, 2018, his nomination was sent to the United States Senate. On January 2, 2019, his nomination was confirmed by voice vote.

On February 8, 2021, he along with 55 other Trump-era attorneys were asked to resign. On February 11, 2021, Milhiser submitted his resignation, effective February 28, 2021.

2022 Illinois Secretary of State Election

During the 2022 elections, Milhiser sought the Republican nomination for Illinois Secretary of State to succeed Jesse White, who announced his retirement after 6 terms in office. Milhiser faced State Representative Dan Brady of Bloomington. Brady defeated Milhiser by a 3 to 1 margin, with Milhiser only winning Sangamon County and Brady winning the state's other 101 counties.

Personal life

He and his wife Gail live in Springfield with their two daughters, Abby and Katie Mae.