Erica Harriss is a Republican politician serving as the Illinois State Senator for the 56th District, which includes parts of Madison and St. Clair counties in the Metro East region. Born in Highland, Illinois, she assumed office on January 11, 2023, succeeding Kris Tharp, and resides in Glen Carbon with her husband Jeff and three children. A businessperson by profession, Harriss emphasizes fiscal responsibility, taxpayer advocacy, and support for families, small businesses, and agriculture.

Notable achievements include being named Freshman of the Year by the Illinois Chamber of Commerce, earning a 100% pro-small business voting record from the National Federation of Independent Business , receiving the Friend of Agriculture Award from the Illinois Farm Bureau, and recognition as a Prairie State Policy Champion by Americans for Prosperity–Illinois. She currently serves as Minority Spokesperson for the Local Government Committee and is a member of the Appropriations-Health and Human Services, Energy and Public Utilities, Higher Education, Veterans Affairs, and Special Committee on Pensions committees.

Education and Political Experience

• Education: Earned a B.A. from Southern Illinois University.
• Political Experience: Served six years on the Madison County Board , including as Chairperson of the Personnel Committee and member of Finance, Government Operations, and Grants committees, focusing on government accountability and high-quality services. Elected to the Illinois Senate in 2023.