John R. Illg Jr., known as "Big John," is a Republican member of the Louisiana House of Representatives representing District 78 . He assumed office on January 13, 2020, after winning election in 2019 by defeating William Wallis; he ran unopposed for re-election in 2023 and is eligible to serve through 2028. A lifelong Republican and small business owner , Illg lives in Metairie with his wife Jeanne and son Robert. Notable roles include Vice Chair of the Insurance and Retirement Committees, member of the Appropriations Committee and Joint Legislative Committee on the Budget, and involvement in the Jefferson Parish Republican Party Executive Committee, Louisiana Republican Legislative Delegation, and community activities like coaching youth sports and co-chairing the Saint Mary Magdalen Crawfish Cook-Off.

Education and Political Experience

• Education: Jesuit High School; attended Louisiana State University.
• Political Experience:
  • First ran for District 78 in 2007 .
  • Elected to Louisiana House, District 78, in 2019; serving 2020–present.
  • Member, Jefferson Parish Republican Party Executive Committee .
  • Former member, Jefferson Parish Litter Advisory Board and Soniat Canal Drainage Advisory Board.