Robert "Bob" Rita is a Democratic state representative serving Illinois' 28th District, which includes Blue Island where he resides. Born on October 2, 1969, he serves as Deputy Majority Leader in the Illinois House of Representatives and has held office since January 2003. He chairs the House Committee on Appropriations - General Services, vice-chairs the House Committee on Executive, and serves on committees including Ethics and Elections, Gaming, and Housing. Rita comes from a family dedicated to public service and is the father of one daughter, Ashley. Notable recent activity includes sponsoring HB2851, the Sparkler Excise Tax Act, assigned to the Revenue & Finance Committee in March 2026.

Education and Political Experience

• Education: Graduate of Eisenhower High School; attended Governors State University.
• Political Experience: First elected in 2002; has served continuously since 2003 as a Democratic representative for the 28th District; current roles include Deputy Majority Leader and various committee leadership positions.